Work

Are ultra-processed foods really cheap? Reassessing health, equity and environmental costs across the life course in low- and middle-income countries

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Ultra-processed foods, as classified by NOVA, provide a substantial and rising share of dietary energy worldwide. Manufactured from cheap refined ingredients and cosmetic additives, they are engineered for hyper-palatability, long shelf life and profit and are widely perceived as convenient, low-cost options. This commentary argues that such perceptions of 'cheapness' are misleading once health, equity and environmental impacts are considered.

Source: Public Health Nutrition

DOI: 10.1017/s1368980026102778

Authors: Sandeep Kaur, Akashdeep Singh Chauhan

Institutions: Imperial College London, Public Health Foundation of India

Language: English

Topic: Consumer Attitudes and Food Labeling

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Zero hunger, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,550