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Ultra-Processed People

Why We Can't Stop Eating Food That Isn't Food written by Chris van Tulleken

A manifesto to change how you eat and how you think about the human body.

It’s not you, it’s the food.

We have entered a new age of eating. For the first time in human history, most of our calories come from an entirely novel set of substances called Ultra-Processed Food. There’s a long, formal scientific definition, but it can be boiled down to this: if it’s wrapped in plastic and has at least one ingredient that you wouldn’t find in your kitchen, it’s UPF.

These products are specifically engineered to behave as addictive substances, driving excess consumption. They are now linked to the leading cause of early death globally and the number one cause of environmental destruction. Yet almost all our staple foods are ultra-processed. UPF is our food culture and for many people it is the only available and affordable food.

Visit website: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultra-Processed_People

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Chris van Tulleken

A British doctor and TV presenter, celebrated for contributions to "Operation Ouch!" and "The Doctor Who Gave Up Drugs," while also championing science communication and public health.

Details last updated 28-Nov-2025

Topics mentioned on this page:
Ultra-Processed Food (UPF), Diet and Nutrition