Risks of Ultra-Processed Foods and Their Market Exit – U.S. Correspondence by Jay Lee (149)

Low in Essential Nutrients Like Minerals, High in Salt and Sugar

Definition Remains Unclear… Instant Oatmeal and Similar Products Can Still Be Nutritious and Affordable

△ Jay Lee, CEO of J&B Food Consulting

Recently, warnings about the negative health effects of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have been pouring in from various sources. Commonly consumed UPFs such as potato chips, soft drinks, fast food, processed meats, and candies have been repeatedly linked in studies to a wide range of health problems—from premature aging to cognitive decline.

Robert Kennedy, the newly appointed U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, has even mentioned the possibility of removing UPFs from the market, while some states are working on legislation to eliminate UPFs from school meal programs.

This is because UPFs typically contain very little fiber, vitamins, or minerals, yet are high in saturated fats, salt, and sugar. They also contain large amounts of artificial additives such as colorants, flavors, sweeteners, and emulsifiers. Many Korean products fall into the UPF category due to the use of various seasonings and compound flavor enhancers to improve taste.

A recent international study analyzing data from eight countries—including the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.—found a clear link between UPF consumption and premature death. For every 10% increase in the proportion of UPFs in the diet, the risk of premature death rose by 3%. UPF consumption was also associated with more than 32 diseases, including diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

The problem is especially serious in countries with high UPF consumption. In Colombia, UPFs account for only about 15% of the diet, whereas in the U.S., the figure reaches 50%. Correspondingly, the premature death rate linked to UPF consumption is around 4% in Colombia but climbs to 14% in the U.S. Researchers estimate that in 2018 alone, UPF consumption contributed to approximately 124,000 premature deaths. The greater concern is that UPF consumption is on the rise worldwide.

In contrast, the health benefits of traditional diets are gaining renewed attention. Diets centered on minimally processed plant-based foods—such as okra, plantains, and legumes—are far more beneficial to health compared to modern UPFs.

The so-called “Blue Zones” have also been highlighted. These include Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), Ikaria (Greece), Nicoya (Costa Rica), and Loma Linda (U.S.), where residents are known for low meat consumption and diets based primarily on minimally processed plant-based foods.

It’s worth noting that the definition of “ultra-processed food” is not entirely clear, and it is difficult to declare all UPFs inherently harmful. For example, plant-based UPFs like canned beans or instant oatmeal still provide rich nutrients and offer consumers convenient and affordable meal options. Similarly, plant-based milk or yogurt fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins can be nutritious choices.

The challenge lies in developing and exporting products that strike a balance between convenience and health.

Feel free to contact us

jay@jnbfoodconsulting.com or 714-873-5566

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