Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleJane KirbyThursday 16 April 2026 01:29 BSTAre ultra-processed foods bad for you? | DecomplicatedA new UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) study found the public feels largely uninformed about ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and their potential health impacts.Participants expressed widespread concerns that UPFs could negatively affect pregnancy, child development, mental health, obesity and increase the risk of diseases such as cancer.The report highlighted that 56 per cent of calories consumed in the UK come from UPFs, increasing to 68 per cent in teenagers, a figure significantly higher than in countries like France and Italy.The public distrusts industry messaging, describing UPF advertising as “insidious” and “lulling people into a false sense of security,” and called for immediate government action, especially regarding child health.People want clearer guidance on which UPFs are better or worse and if they can be part of a healthy diet, with UKRI committing to further research to provide impartial evidence.In fullGovernment urged to act on ultra-processed food adverts over child health fearsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in