Ultra-processed foods are also the most addictive.

It all comes from the same causes that lead to health damage: sugars, salt and flavourings.

di |
ultra-processed foods
Ultra-processed foods are undoubtedly harmful to health and pose a host of problems, increasing the risk of diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease, while simultaneously worsening the metabolic profile of those who consume them frequently. Another factor has now been added: the addiction to these foods, so hyped by advertising and marketing.
Many studies show that some ultra-processed foods (industrial snacks, packaged sweets, fast food, sugary drinks) can have a “addictive-like” potential, that is, they can promote behaviors similar to those of addiction: compulsive cravings, difficulty stopping, consumption beyond satiety.

Un review work very complete, from 2026, titled The addicted brain: How processed foods hijack reward pathways and published in the magazine  Pharmacological Research concludes that:

  • The ultra-processed (UPF) rich in refined sugars and fats
  • activate the dopamine reward circuit
  • and can produce addiction-like behaviors

In particular, it reports that addictions are created which are expressed in the form of:

  • craving (compulsive desire)
  • loss of control
  • excessive consumption
  • “tolerance” and compulsive behavior

But how does addiction to ultra-processed foods arise? This happens mainly because they are designed to be very "hyper-palatable," that is, they artificially combine:

  • sugar
  • fats
  • salt
  • very pleasant aromas and textures

This combination strongly stimulates the reward circuits in the brain (dopamine), making consumption very rewarding and encouraging repeat consumption.

In a book that has become a global bestseller (Ultraprocessed Foods, Vallardi edition), infectious disease specialist Chris van Tulleken reviews a whole series of harmful ingredients that give flavor and texture to foods and allow the preservation of ultra-processed foods (preservatives, colorings and flavorings), and explains in detail why the same ingredients also lead to addiction and dependence.

Read also:

Want to see a selection of our news?

Don't Waste