What are Ultra-processed Foods?
Ultra-processed foods are industrially manufactured items that contain little or no whole food. They often include additives, sweeteners, emulsifiers, and preservatives, which are designed to enhance flavor, appearance, and shelf life. Common examples include sugary beverages, packaged snacks and baked goods, ready-to-eat frozen meals, and convenience sandwiches. These products are typically energy-dense and low in fiber and essential nutrients, while being high in added sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.
What Does CDC Analysis on Ultra-Processed Food Tell?
- The CDC’s analysis of data from 2021 to 2023 underscores the prevalence of UPFs in the American diet. Overall, more than half of the calories consumed by people aged one and older come from ultra-processed foods. Among youth aged 1–18, the proportion rises to nearly 62%, while adults consume slightly over 53% of their calories from these foods. The most significant contributors include sandwiches, sweet baked products, savory snacks, pizza, and sugar-sweetened beverages. Although the share of calories from UPFs has decreased slightly compared to previous surveys, the overall consumption remains alarmingly high.
- Public health experts are concerned because high intake of ultra-processed foods is associated with negative health outcomes. Studies have consistently linked higher UPF consumption to increased risks of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause mortality. Ultra-processed foods are designed to be hyperpalatable, making it more challenging for both adults and children to maintain healthy dietary patterns.
- The White House has also drawn attention to this issue. In 2025, a report led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. emphasized the role of ultra-processed foods in chronic disease. The report recommended policy measures to reduce UPF exposure, including improved school nutrition programs, enhanced labeling and marketing regulations, and broader reforms within the food system. These findings have fueled renewed public and policy discussions about the importance of promoting diets rich in whole, minimally processed foods.
- While systemic changes are necessary, individuals can take practical steps to reduce UPF consumption. Simple strategies include substituting flavored instant oats with plain oats, replacing packaged snacks with fresh fruit, preparing batch-cooked meals from whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins, and choosing water or unsweetened beverages over sugar-sweetened drinks. Reading ingredient labels carefully and minimizing foods with refined sugars, syrups, and unfamiliar additives can also help in making healthier choices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ultra-processed foods now constitute more than half of the calories consumed by Americans, with children and adolescents being particularly affected. Although modest declines in UPF consumption have been observed, the overall prevalence remains high, underscoring the importance of both public health interventions and individual dietary choices. By gradually increasing the intake of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables while reducing reliance on packaged and processed items, individuals can make meaningful improvements to their long-term health.
