Key points from article :
Eating ultra-processed foods (UPFs) such as ice cream, ham, crisps, mass-produced bread and breakfast cereal may increase the risk of cancer.
The study said the link could not be proven owing to the fact it is based on observations, where people remember what they eat.
Ultra-processed foods usually contain additives that may include chemicals, colourings, sweeteners and preservatives to extend shelf-life.
The team used UK Biobank data to examine the diets of 197,426 people aged 40 to 69.
Their health was tracked over a decade and their risk of developing cancer or dying from it was also analysed.
The study found that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods was associated with a greater risk of developing cancer overall.
Specifically led to ovarian and brain cancers.
"This study adds to the growing evidence ... risk for cancer:" Eszter Vamos, lead author.
The was carried out at The Imperial College London and was published in eClinicalMedicine.
