Ultra-Processed Foods Should Be Regulated Like Cigarettes, Study Says

Ultra-processed foods should face tobacco-style regulation because they promote addiction and harm public health, researchers say.
Scientists from Harvard, the University of Michigan, and Duke compared UPFs to cigarettes in design and health impact.
They said manufacturers optimise ingredients to drive compulsive consumption and reward responses.
The study, published in Milbank Quarterly, warned that marketing claims can delay regulation.
Researchers urged governments to shift responsibility from consumers to the food industry.
Some experts cautioned against overreach but agreed stronger controls are needed.