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Every year, new ultra-processed foods are introduced by both new and established companies. Most of these companies focus solely on profit and pay little attention to our health, as many of us already know. However, many parents continue to buy these foods for their children because of the convenience they offer.
These foods are heavily modified with additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients to increase their taste. When we rely on these tasty but unhealthy options, we put ourselves and our children’s health at risk.
So, what makes ultra-processed foods bad? Why should we pay attention to this matter? Let’s explore the answers and learn more about ultra-processed food lawsuits.
Ultra-Processed Foods Overview
Ultra-processed foods (UPF) are made up of substances extracted from foods or synthesized in laboratories. What constitutes ultra-processed food? They contain artificial sweeteners, colorings, and flavor enhancers like hydrogenated fats and high fructose corn syrup.
The rise of ultra-processed foods began in the late 20th century. Many ultra-processed foods are made using refined oils, protein isolates, and chemically altered starches rather than whole, natural ingredients. These high calorie foods are heavily incorporated into our diets.
While these foods offer convenience and a long shelf life, they lack vital nutrients and can contribute to serious health issues. From weight gain and heart problems to diabetes and digestive issues, the risks keep adding up. Frozen meals, energy drinks, ready-made pizza, hot dogs, and chicken nuggets are some of the examples of ultra-processed foods.
Why Are Ultra-Processed Foods Bad for You?
Regularly choosing ultra-processed foods over healthy foods can cause serious health risks. Research has shown that regular consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked to conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and even cancer.
Type 2 diabetes: Ultra-processed foods are often high in sugar and carbohydrates, which cause blood sugar levels to rise. Over time, this leads to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes in both children and adults.
Heart disease: Eating food with unhealthy fats and excessive salt increases the risk of heart disease. Ultra-processed foods often contain trans fats and hydrogenated oils, which contribute to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and clogged arteries.
Weight gain: Ultra-processed foods stimulate cravings and make people eat more than they need. Because they are low in fiber and nutrients but high in calories, they don’t provide lasting fullness, leading to overeating and weight gain.
Cancer risk: Many ultra-processed foods contain preservatives, artificial coloring, and chemicals that have been linked to increased cancer risks. Studies suggest that people who consume high levels of ultra-processed foods are more likely to develop cancers, compared to those who eat fresh, whole foods.
Studies Related to UPFs and Health Risks
A recent study published in JAMA examined whether eating too many ultra-processed foods is linked to weight gain and obesity in Canadian children. The research focused on how much ultra-processed food children ate at age 3 and measured their body weight and fat levels at age 5.
The study finds that ultra-processed foods made up nearly 45% of the children’s daily calorie intake at age 3. Boys who ate more ultra-processed foods had increased waist-to-height ratios and more fat in the arms and back. This study highlights that eating too many ultra-processed foods at an early age can lead to obesity, especially in boys.
A 2024 research study published in the British Medical Journal analyzed 45 different studies that included nearly 10 million people. The study used a well-known food classification system called NOVA, which categorizes foods based on how much they are processed.
The study found people who ate more ultra-processed foods had a 50% higher risk of dying from heart disease. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increased by 12% for every higher level of ultra-processed food consumption.
The study found that ultra-processed foods were associated with a 40% increased risk of wheezing and other respiratory issues. The study also found a 22% increased risk of depression. This research highlights the serious health risks of eating ultra-processed foods regularly.
A 2023 study published in JAMA says that eating too many ultra-processed foods may increase the risk of depression, especially among middle-aged women. Researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health followed 31,712 middle-aged women from 2003 to 2017.
The study found women who ate the most ultra-processed foods had a higher risk of depression than those who ate the least. Among different types of UPFs, artificially sweetened beverages and artificial sweeteners had the strongest link to depression.
Although the exact reason is not clear, scientists believe that artificial sweeteners may affect brain function. Studies suggest they interfere with brain signaling and may play a role in depression development.
A 2025 study conducted by researchers at the Catholic University of Valencia found that children who eat ultra-processed foods may develop misaligned teeth and underdeveloped jaws. The study analyzed the diet and jaw development of 25 children aged 3 to 5.
Children who regularly consumed soft, ultra-processed foods had narrower gaps between baby teeth, increasing the risk of misalignment when adult teeth emerged. These foods lack the toughness needed for proper jaw muscle stimulation and contribute to long-term dental issues.
Ultra-Processed Food Lawsuit
In December 2024, Bryce Martinez, a resident of Pennsylvania, filed an ultra-processed food lawsuit against some food companies. He used the products and was later diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Defendants (Companies Being Sued):
Bryce is suing several major food companies that produce, market, and sell UPFs, including:
- Kraft Heinz (based in Pittsburgh, PA)
- Mondelez (based in Chicago, IL)
- Post Holdings (based in St. Louis, MO)
- Coca-Cola (based in Atlanta, GA)
- PepsiCo (based in Purchase, NY)
- General Mills (based in Minneapolis, MN)
- Nestlé USA (based in Arlington, VA)
- Kellanova & WK Kellogg Co. (both connected to Kellogg’s, based in Chicago, IL & Battle Creek, MI)
- Mars Inc. (based in McLean, VA)
- ConAgra (based in Chicago, IL)
Marketing Strategies of the Defendants
The ultra-processed food lawsuit states that companies like RJ Reynolds and Philip Morris, known for selling cigarettes, started buying food brands in the late 20s. Some of their businesses were later named companies like Kraft Heinz, Mondelez, and Post Holdings. These companies know about tobacco addiction, so they create food products based on addictive substances like nicotine and cocaine.
Some studies found that ultra-processed foods can cause psychoactive effects, which can alter mood and emotions. They stimulate dopamine release in the brain, similar to nicotine and alcohol.
In studies, both humans and animals will go to great lengths to eat UPFs, even when they are not hungry. In fact, rodents prefer sweetened UPFs over drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine. Studies show that UPFs trigger brain responses, increasing cravings and leading to overeating.
The plaintiff states that the food companies, especially those once owned by Big Tobacco, have deliberately made UPFs more addictive. They use artificial flavors, colors, and other additives to maximize cravings, just as they did with cigarettes.
One of the most harmful marketing tactics these companies use is targeting children with advertising. Just like the tobacco industry, they use cartoons, bright packaging, and fun ads to attract kids. Philip Morris even worked with brands like Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Marvel to make their unhealthy foods more appealing.
Ultra-processed foods are everywhere, whereas healthier options are harder to find. These addictive foods are heavily advertised prompting people to buy them.
Allegations against the Companies
The plaintiff’s allegations against the companies include a range of serious claims, including:
- Negligence
- Failure to warn
- Breach of implied warranty
- Breach of express warranty
- Negligent misrepresentation
- Fraudulent misrepresentation
- Fraudulent concealment
- Violation of unfair trade practices & consumer protection law
- Unjust enrichment
- Conspiracy
- Concerted action
The ultra-processed food lawsuit seeks both compensatory and punitive damages.
FDA’s Approach to Ultra-Processed Foods
Dr. Robert M. Califf, Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration explains the growing health issues and how the food industry contributes to these problems. The FDA knows the harmful effects of UPFs, which contain high levels of harmful ingredients and is working to better evaluate and regulate food additives. Some processed foods are necessary, but more research is needed on UPFs. The FDA aims to improve food labeling and reduce unhealthy ingredients like sodium.
The FDA has launched the Nutrition Center of Excellence (NCE) to improve nutrition science and policies, collaborating with other agencies to improve health equity. The FDA is also focusing on clear food labels, especially front-of-package (FOP) labels, to help people make healthier choices. He finally says that the FDA is committed to working with various groups to create a healthier food system for all Americans.
Conclusion
Ultra-processed foods pose severe health risks, especially to children. Parents play a crucial role in ensuring their children stay healthy by providing nutritious foods. This ultra-processed food lawsuit is evidence of how companies prioritize profit over people’s well-being. If you have been affected by an ultra-processed food company, consider filing a lawsuit and seeking guidance from a skilled attorney. This is not an issue we can face alone. Food companies must follow strict health and safety standards when making their products. For a healthier future, consumer awareness and legal action are necessary.
