Ultra-Processed Foods: Myths, Facts, and Future Role

The debate over Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) often polarizes into two extremes: outright rejection of UPFs as harmful or full acceptance due to their practicality. During the interactive workshop around this complex issue, experts will shed light on both aspects, providing insights into the multifaceted nature of UPFs, and participants will be encouraged to engage actively in the dialogue.

Key questions that will be explored include: What are the scientific facts and misconceptions about the health impacts of UPFs? How can UPFs contribute to global food security, and what risks do they pose? What regulatory frameworks are necessary to ensure their safe and ethical production and consumption? What drives the increasing consumption of UPFs, and what strategies can be employed to promote healthier alternatives? Finally, what innovations can make UPFs both healthier and more environmentally sustainable?

This workshop offers all the opportunity to collaboratively address the challenges and opportunities that UPFs present. The goal is to ensure equitable access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food while considering the broader implications for global food systems. Through thoughtful exploration of health, regulation, food security, and innovation, the workshop aims to advance understanding of the role of UPFs in our diets.

Niels Jungbluth provided insights at the ETH food day from the environmental point of view. The short presentation "Environmental impacts of (ultra) processed foods (UPF)" can be downloaded here.