Ultra-processed foods like soda and hotdogs might taste great, but is it possible to truly get hooked on them? This question is at the heart of a groundbreaking lawsuit claiming these foods are addictive and questioning their impact on our brains.
The lawsuit was filed in Philadelphia by Bryce Martinez, who says he developed type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease after consuming ultra-processed foods from companies like Kraft Heinz, Mondelez, and General Mills. Martinez received his diagnosis at 16 years old.
In his claim, Martinez accuses these companies of intentionally making their products addictive, fully aware of the potential harm. He argues that they employed tactics similar to those used by cigarette companies in the past to market addictive products targeted at children and minorities.
The lawsuit targets the companies for conspiracy, negligence, fraudulent misrepresentation, and unfair business practices, seeking compensatory and punitive damages. Ultra-processed foods have been linked to health issues such as certain cancers and dementia, which adds weight to these claims.
While the outcome of the lawsuit is uncertain, it’s natural to wonder if ultra-processed foods can indeed be addictive and if our cravings for them might be due to that.
Food processing levels are categorized using the NOVA classification system, which divides foods into four groups. Ultra-processed foods are typically industrially manufactured and go beyond basic food processing, often lacking whole food ingredients. They’re made with refined carbs, added fats, sugars, and artificial additives to enhance taste and pleasure.
These foods are surprisingly common, making up about 70% of the U.S. food supply. It’s easy to joke about being hooked on chips or cookies, but scientists have specific criteria to define true addiction.
Addiction is a chronic medical condition involving complex interactions between brain circuits, genetics, and life experiences. People with addictions engage in compulsive behaviors despite knowing the negative consequences.
Determining if ultra-processed foods are truly addictive is tricky. Some evidence suggests certain people might experience an addictive relationship with food, showing both biological and behavioral similarities to other addictions. However, it’s unclear if this is specifically due to ultra-processed foods.
These foods can stimulate brain reward regions, especially when advertised or consumed, increasing cravings and the desire to eat more. However, for most people, these foods are not addictive in the same way as substances like cocaine. Instead, they often fit into a cycle of habit-based eating due to their accessibility, taste, and aggressive marketing.
The pleasure and reward from these foods can provide comfort during tough times or stress. There is research suggesting ultra-processed foods might be addictive, as they are designed to deliver potent doses of ingredients that stimulate brain pathways linked to pleasure and motivation. Refined carbohydrates and fats in these foods can also trigger these brain reward systems.
Some individuals might be more prone to this than others. Studies indicate around 15% report symptoms associated with substance-use disorders related to their ultra-processed food intake, such as consumption despite negative consequences and withdrawal symptoms.
Whether you’re genuinely addicted to ultra-processed foods or just find them hard to resist, there are strategies to help cut back. Breaking this dependency involves understanding personal triggers, like stress, to help make healthier choices. Instead of cutting them out completely, gradually replace ultra-processed foods with whole, minimally processed options for a more sustainable transition. Avoid keeping them at home and plan meals in advance to reduce reliance on convenience foods.
Regular exercise might also assist, as even 20 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise can boost cognitive control, making it easier to manage food cravings. Consuming ultra-processed foods occasionally is generally fine, as long as the majority of your diet comes from unprocessed or minimally processed foods.
