Ultra-Processed Foods Should Be Regulated Like Cigarettes, Researchers Say

Ultra-processed foods should face controls similar to tobacco, according to researchers from Harvard University, University of Michigan and Duke University.
The study argues UPFs are engineered to drive addiction and overconsumption, mirroring cigarette design.
Researchers highlighted health harms and marketing tactics that resemble past tobacco strategies.
They published the findings in Milbank Quarterly.
The authors called for tighter regulation, including marketing restrictions and industry accountability.
Some experts warned against overreach, saying food differs from nicotine and needs nuanced policy.