Ultra-processed food linked to quarter of heart disease cases and deaths

Some experts criticised the study, saying there was a lack of evidence to show UPFs increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Examples of UPFs include ice cream, processed meats, crisps, mass-produced bread, some breakfast cereals, biscuits, many ready meals, and fizzy drinks. File picture

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) could be driving around a quarter of cases of heart disease and heart disease deaths, research suggests.

Data published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine and presented at the International Congress on Obesity in Mexico suggests deaths will fall if people cut their intake of UPFs.