Ultra-Processed Foods Controversy: Myths, Realities, and Policy Implications

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have recently been associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases. However, this association remains controversial. The present commentary aims to clarify some of these controversies by summarizing the hypotheses linking UPFs to chronic diseases and critically examining the evidence regarding specific components of UPFs—such as saturated fat, added sugars, salt, and food additives—and their relationships with disease risk. Finally, the commentary discusses the implications of these findings for the development of dietary guidelines and public health policies at both global and national levels.