Australia’s ultra-processed food consumption increasing high risk of illness, death: The Lancet series

Almost half of what Australians eat is ultra-processed food, which is increasing exposure to cocktails of harmful chemicals, including PFAS , and raising people’s risk of chronic disease.

Mass-produced bread, protein bars, processed meats, fast food, ready meals, soft drinks, instant noodles and breakfast cereals are increasing the risk of illness and death, and consumers have no way of knowing what the combinations of chemicals in them could be doing to their health.

Forty-three global experts, including Australians, published the series Ultra-Processed Foods and Human Health in The Lancet on Wednesday, warning that diets are worsening as dietary patterns move away from fresh and minimally processed foods.

This is having a similar impact on health – but “in reverse” – to the pr