Ultra-Processed Foods Should Face Tobacco-Style Controls, Study Argues

Researchers say ultra-processed foods resemble cigarettes more than real food and need tougher regulation.
A report from Harvard University, University of Michigan, and Duke University found UPFs are engineered to drive addiction and overconsumption.
The study links UPFs to widespread health harms and compares industry tactics to historic tobacco practices.
Authors warn marketing claims like “low fat” can delay regulation, similar to filtered cigarette advertising.
They urge measures such as marketing restrictions and stronger industry accountability.
Some experts caution against direct comparisons but agree UPFs pose serious public health risks.