Ultra-processed food increases risk of early death, international study finds

Each 10% extra intake of UPF increases someone’s risk of dying before they reach 75 by 3%, according to research. Photograph: Beats/Alamy

Consuming large amounts of ultra-processed food (UPF) increases the risk of an early death, according to a international study that has reignited calls for a crackdown on UPF.

Each 10% extra intake of UPF, such as pre-packaged bread, cakes and ready meals, increases someone’s risk of dying before they reach 75 by 3%, according to research in countries including the US and England.