Are ultra-processed foods impossible to avoid?

The Global Story

Research into ultra-processed foods suggests they could be linked to health problems including cancers, heart disease, obesity and depression - but scientists are yet to agree on how they actually affect us. Often mass-produced, and containing multiple additives, UPFs have become the target of nutritionists and clean-living advocates alike. But, given how common they are, can we realistically avoid them?

On this episode, Lucy Hockings speaks with BBC health reporter Philippa Roxby, and Ruth Alexander, presenter of The Food Chain podcast from the BBC World Service. Together, they unpack what we really know about UPFs.

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Producers: Beth Timmins, Laurie Kalus, and Alice Aylett Roberts.

Sound Engineers: Ben Andrews and Mike Regaard.

Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas.

Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith.