Nutrition Ultra-processed foods may be linked to cancer, says study Findings suggest increased consumption of ultra-processed foods tied to rise in cancers, but scientists say more research is needed Ultra-processed foods can include noodles, ready meals, cakes and confectionery which contain additives, preservatives, flavourings and colourings – and often high levels of sugar, fat and salt. Photograph: Premier Foods/PA“Ultra-processed” foods, made in factories with ingredients unknown to the domestic kitchen, may be linked to cancer, according to a large and groundbreaking study. France is one of the few countries that already specifically warns its people against high levels of ultra-processed foods in the diet on “the precautionary principle”, said Mathilde Touvier, lead author of the study. The foods have already been linked to obesity, but the association with cancer is new. Over the years to come, she said, “we will be able to quantify the chronic exposure [of people] to the food additives”.

Source: The Guardian February 14, 2018 23:26 UTC