A large study has linked higher consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) with increased risks of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and premature death. The findings matter because UPFs make up an estimated 54% of British adults’ calorie intake, with even higher proportions among children and teenagers, although the research cannot prove that these foods directly cause the illnesses.

The review combined 51 studies involving more than eight million people across several regions, with some participants followed for up to 32 years. Each additional 100g of UPF consumed daily was associated with a 14% higher risk of a major cardiovascular event, a 4% higher cancer risk and a 3% higher risk of death from any cause; every 10% increase in UPFs’ share of the diet was linked to a 16% rise in diabetes risk. Researchers cited high levels of sugar and salt, low fibre and possible effects from additives and processing, but warned that dietary recall, socioeconomic factors, exercise and alcohol use could also affect the results.