In recent years, a growing concern has emerged regarding the role of ultra-processed foods in rising health issues such as diabetes and obesity. Policymakers, government agencies, and health advocates have increasingly targeted these products, but there remains significant ambiguity around what exactly constitutes an ultra-processed food. This lack of clarity complicates efforts to assess their true impact on public health. Despite this, some officials have made bold claims about the dangers of ultra-processed foods, leading to regulatory actions and legal challenges from civil litigants. However, the debate is far from settled, with ongoing research aiming to clarify the relationship between food processing and health outcomes.

The Controversy Surrounding Ultra-Processed Foods

In the midst of a heated debate over food safety and nutrition, the term "ultra-processed" has become a focal point for both critics and defenders of modern diets. The controversy began to escalate when government officials started making strong statements about the health risks associated with these foods. For instance, in early 2025, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order linking ultra-processed foods to adverse health effects. Similarly, former FDA Commissioner Robert Califf expressed concerns about the addictive nature of these products. Meanwhile, civil lawsuits against manufacturers of ultra-processed foods have accused them of contributing to serious chronic illnesses like obesity and diabetes.

However, defining what qualifies as an ultra-processed food remains challenging. According to the NOVA classification system developed by Carlos Monteiro at the University of São Paulo, ultra-processed foods are characterized by multiple ingredients, industrial additives, and mass production techniques. Yet, this broad definition encompasses a wide range of products, from unhealthy snacks to nutritious options like veggie burgers and tofu. As a result, researchers estimate that up to 73% of the U.S. food supply falls into this category, raising questions about whether all ultra-processed foods pose equal health risks.

Given this uncertainty, some regulators are reconsidering their approach. The USDA Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, for example, declined to issue specific recommendations on ultra-processed foods due to insufficient evidence. Instead, they are conducting further studies to better understand the relationship between dietary patterns and health outcomes. Additionally, state legislatures are exploring targeted regulations focused on specific ingredients rather than blanket bans on all ultra-processed foods.

Striking a Balance Between Health and Safety

As the discussion around ultra-processed foods continues, it's crucial to strike a balance between addressing potential health risks and ensuring food security. While some ultra-processed foods may indeed contribute to negative health outcomes, others play a vital role in providing accessible, affordable, and safe nutrition for millions of people. Therefore, policymakers should focus on evaluating the impact of individual ingredients and processing methods rather than lumping all ultra-processed foods together under one umbrella. By doing so, we can develop more nuanced and effective strategies to promote healthier eating habits without compromising food safety or affordability.