The market for ultra-processed food items has been a growing segment of the global food industry in recent years. Ultra-processed foods are indicative of high levels of processing, often containing additives and preservatives. Ultra-processed food, on the other hand, is a different story. Now, frequent consumption of ultra-processed meals is highly connected to severe declines in mental wellness.
Ultra-Processed Food & Mental Health Wellness
The market for ultra-processed foods has seen substantial growth worldwide, driven by factors such as changing lifestyles, urbanisation, and increasing disposable incomes. There is a growing awareness of the health risks associated with the consumption of ultra-processed foods. These products are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and salt.
According to a report by the US-based nonprofit Sapiens Labs, those who consumed ultra-processed foods (UPFs) were likely to be distressed or struggling with their mental health. Then those who rarely or never consumed these foods several times per day were nearly three times more
After examining lifestyle and health-related behaviours, the researchers discovered that people who consumed the most ultra-processed foods were more likely to have heightened psychological discomfort, a sign of depression.
The market for ultra-processed foods is highly competitive, with both large multinational corporations and smaller, specialized companies vying for market share. Convenience and longer shelf life are appealing to consumers with busy lives.
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What About Indian Citizens?
The survey was done in India, among internet-enabled English and Hindi speakers. The study included 30,000 individuals from India. This is especially concerning given that India is one of the fastest-growing markets for ultra-processed foods. The WHO estimates that this sector grew at a compound annual growth rate of 13.37% in retail sales value between 2011 and 2021.
In the previous ten years, there has been a growth in all of these store-bought food items. According to The Times of India, sales of all of these food items declined by a tiny proportion during the COVID-19 years. Now, the sales trend indicates that the sale of ultra-processed food has increased. In fact, the World Health Organisation and the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations saw a V-shaped rebound in this market following the pandemic.
So, when are you putting a check on your consumption of ultra-processed food items?
Cover image credits: Canva