10 Ways to Limit Ultra-Processed Foods and Improve Our Health

Ultra-processed foods dominate our shelves and screens, but they’re taking a huge toll on our health. To prevent future health crises, we need to take action now. Here are 10 effective strategies to limit ultra-processed food consumption and steer people toward healthier choices.

1. Smaller Portions, Same Price
Shrink packaging sizes for ultra-processed foods, offering only smaller portions while maintaining the price relative to the size. This can help limit overconsumption and encourage more mindful eating habits.

2. Increase Taxes on Ultra-Processed Foods
Impose higher taxes on ultra-processed foods, making them less affordable, similar to how taxes are applied to tobacco or alcohol. This can also help offset healthcare costs tied to diet-related diseases.

3. Age Restrictions on Ultra-Processed Foods
Like alcohol and tobacco, consider restricting the sale of ultra-processed foods to individuals over a certain age, such as 18 or 21. This helps protect growing children and teens from exposure to foods that can harm their long-term health.

4. Educate Parents and Schools
Target educational efforts toward parents and schools, helping them understand the harmful effects of ultra-processed foods. With this knowledge, they can make healthier choices and provide better food options for children.

5. Graphic Warnings on Packaging
Take inspiration from Australia's approach to tobacco by adding bold, graphic warnings on ultra-processed food packaging. These labels should clearly state the health risks, making it harder for consumers to ignore.

6. Fortify Ultra-Processed Foods with Nutrients and Fiber
If eliminating ultra-processed foods isn’t an option, at least make them healthier by fortifying them with essential nutrients, vitamins, and fiber. For example, adding psyllium husk to the breading of chicken nuggets or fortifying the chicken itself with vitamins and minerals.

7. Ban Adorable Cartoony Images on Packaging
Stop using cartoon characters to attract children to ultra-processed foods. Removing images of happy animals or playful characters from packaging will reduce the appeal to younger audiences and curb their desire for unhealthy foods.

8. Limit TV Ads Targeting Kids
Just like the UK, we should ban TV advertisements for ultra-processed foods that target children. By reducing exposure to these ads, we can help prevent children from developing unhealthy eating habits early in life.

9. Adjust Product Placement in Stores
Place ultra-processed foods on higher, out of the direct line of sight of both children and parents walking through the aisles. Keeping them off the middle shelves can reduce impulse buys and limit exposure to these unhealthy options.

10. Highlight Nutritional Claims in Produce Sections
Promote the benefits of whole foods by placing clear nutritional claims in the produce section. For example, signs could point out that broccoli is rich in vitamins B and C, or that apples support heart health. This approach can encourage shoppers to choose nutrient-dense foods over ultra-processed options.

Conclusion: We Have to Act Now
These solutions offer a clear path toward reducing ultra-processed food consumption and improving overall health. By reshaping the way we market, package, and educate about food, we can steer people toward healthier choices and prevent future health crises. The time for change is now.