Study Equates Ultrprocessed Foods to Cigarettes, Demands Tighter Controls

A new study has compared ultrprocessed foods to cigarettes, calling for stricter government controls. Researchers from top US universities, including the University of Michigan, Duke University, and Harvard University, argue these products are engineered to be addictive, much like tobacco. Their findings, published in Milbank Quarterly, highlight shared industrial tactics and health risks.

The analysis was led by experts from the aforementioned universities. They found that ultrprocessed foods and cigarettes are both designed for rapid consumption and strong sensory appeal. Both products trigger the brain's reward system, reinforcing cravings and encouraging repeated use.

The study notes that these foods are optimized for quick digestion and intense flavors. Bright colors, bold tastes, and textures make them irresistible, much like the engineered appeal of cigarettes. Manufacturers also use aggressive marketing to boost sales while avoiding stricter regulations.

Governments are starting to respond. The EU is exploring taxes on nutrient-poor processed foods, tighter advertising rules for children, and bans in schools and hospitals. Meanwhile, Austria has cut VAT on basic foods from 10% to 4.9% by July 2026 to improve affordability.

The researchers urge agencies to treat ultrprocessed foods like hedonic products, similar to tobacco. Their addictive design and health risks demand stronger oversight. Without intervention, consumption patterns could lead to long-term public health consequences.