Ultra-processed foods need tobacco-style warnings, says scientist

There has been a rapid rise in global consumption of UPFs such as cereals, protein bars, fizzy drinks, ready meals, and fast food.

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are displacing healthy diets “all over the world” despite growing evidence of the risks they pose and should be sold with tobacco-style warnings, according to the nutritional scientist who first coined the term.

Prof Carlos Monteiro of the University of São Paulo will highlight the increasing danger UPFs present to children and adults at the International Congress on Obesity.