Should Ultra-Processed Foods Be Labeled With Tobacco-Style Warnings? [Video]

Over a decade ago, Dr. Carlos Monteiro, a professor of nutrition and public health at the University of São Paulo and a nutritional epidemiologist, developed the NOVA classification for food. Under the system, foods are placed into one of four categories, ranging from unprocessed foods — like fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats — to ultra-processed foods (UPFs) that contain additives, flavorings, colorings, and sweeteners like high-fructose corn syrup. 

After literally defining UPFs and studying the effects of diets high in UPFs, Dr. Monteiro recommends that UPFs be labeled with warning labels, similar to those on cigarette packages. He also advocates for public health campaigns that would warn the public about the potential dangers of excess UPF consumption. 

“UPFs are increasing their share in and domination of global diets, despite the risk they represent to health in terms of increasing the risk of multiple chronic diseases,” Montiero told The Guardian. “UPFs are displacing healthier, less processed foods all …