Experts Say Ultra-Processed Foods Should Be Labelled As "Addictive"

Tuesday, 10 October 2023 14:37

By Hannah Kelly

They claim some people can get hooked on certain ultra-processed items because of the effect they have on the brain.

Researchers believe if they are viewed as having an addictive substance then it could help improve global health.

One in seven adults and one in eight children could be hooked on products which are high in fats and carbohydrates.

A global study found that 14 per cent of adults and 12 per cent of children are addicted to processed foods such as ice cream, fizzy drinks and ready meals.

These food items are linked to heart disease, weight gain and an increased risk of cancer and so researchers say they should be labelled as addictive, as it may help change people's eating habits.

Nutritionist Gaye Godkin says it's fine to eat these foods in moderation, but that isn't always possible:

More from National News

IFA Plan Large Protest This Saturday In Newbridge

Over 800 farmers are expected to stage a protest outside Minister of Agriculture Martin Heydon's Constituency Office
Gardaí Say 'Current' Phase Of Searches Linked To Missing Deirdre Jacob And Jo Jo Dullard Have Ended

Gardaí have confirmed that while active searching at the location has paused, a further technical and forensic assessment of the site is continuing
Former US Soldier, Michael Kelley, Charged In Connection With Death Of Kerry Man Michael Gaine

The 56-year-old farmer was reported missing last March - human tissue found on his farm nearly two months later was confirmed to be his
Father Punched In Head And Child Pushed To Ground During Newbridge Assault

During the altercation, the child was pushed to the ground.
Education Officials Insist Damning Celbridge Primary School Findings Require "Peer Review"

Audio

Two independent reports completed last year and seen by Kfm News warned the school’s long-standing modular building shows widespread deterioration, including structural issues and fire safety concerns.
€20k–€30k Bill Raises Doubts Around Introducing A Video Archive Of Kildare Council Meetings

Councillor Claire O’Rourke has called for the council to create a webcast library of meetings on its website, arguing it would strengthen transparency and allow people who cannot watch live - including workers and carers - to follow key decisions.
Gardaí Target Nigerian-Based Crime Gang In Series Of Raids, Including Kildare

The gang has previously been described by Interpol as a key player in cyber-enabled financial fraud and various online scams.
Kildare Gets Smallest Cut Of Funding To Upgrade Non-Public Rural Roads And Farm Access Routes

The scheme is designed to pay for repairs and upgrades to non-public rural roads and laneways - typically narrow access routes serving homes and farms that are not normally maintained by local authorities.