'Ultra-processed food addiction' is estimated to occur in 14% of adults and 12% of children
Scientists have suggested labelling some ultra-processed foods as "addictive" to help cut obesity rates and change people's diets. It comes as estimates suggest that one in seven adults and one in eight children could be hooked on UPFs including crisps, chocolate and ice cream.
“By acknowledging that certain types of processed foods have the properties of addictive substances, we may be able to help improve global health.” It would also drive more research in these areas, the authors added. The speed in which these foods deliver carbohydrates and fats to the gut could also play a role in their “addictive potential”, the authors added. Food additives may also contribute to the “addictiveness of UPFs”, they said. While these additives, which are added to food for taste and to “improve the mouth feel” are unlikely to be addictive on their own, they could “become powerful reinforcers of the effects of calories in the gut”, they wrote.