Ultra-Processed Foods May Be Addictive Like Drugs, Say Researchers

A new study has warned that many everyday snacks like chips, cookies, and sodas, all classified as ultra-processed foods, may trigger addictive behaviours that meet the same criteria used to diagnose substance-use disorders.

Researchers argue that overlooking this possibility in current diagnostic systems is a critical public health oversight.

“People aren’t becoming addicted to apples or brown rice,” stated lead author Ashley Gearhardt, a psychology professor at the University of Michigan. “They’re struggling with industrial products specifically engineered to hit the brain like a drug — rapidly, intensely and repeatedly.”

The findings, published in ‘Nature Medicine’, draw from nearly 300 studies across 36 countries.

The evidence shows that ultra-processed foods can hijack the brain’s reward system, causing strong cravings, loss of control, and continued consumption despite negative effects, hallmark traits of addiction.

Neuroimaging results further reveal that individuals who compulsively consume these foods exhibit brain activity patterns similar to those seen in people addicted to substances like alcohol and cocaine.

Notably, medications that reduce cravings for ultra-processed foods also appear to ease compulsive drug use, indicating that the underlying brain mechanisms may be the same.

Not Yet Recognised in Diagnostic Manuals

Despite growing scientific support, experts have yet to formally recognise ultra-processed food addiction in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the main guide for diagnosing mental health conditions.

This, the researchers argue, contrasts with the relatively lower evidence required for recognising other conditions, such as nitrous oxide or caffeine use disorder.

“The bar for recognising addiction often sits much lower in other cases,” said co-author Erica LaFata of Drexel University. “It’s time ultra-processed food addiction met the same scientific standard.”

The study urges public health leaders, clinicians, and policymakers to acknowledge the addictive potential of ultra-processed foods.

It calls for increased funding for research, development of clinical diagnostic tools, and protective measures similar to those used in tobacco regulation, including stricter marketing rules for children, clearer product labels, and public education initiatives.

“We’re not saying all food is addictive,” Gearhardt clarified. “We’re saying that many ultra-processed foods are designed to be addictive. And unless we recognise that, we’ll continue to fail the people most affected — especially kids.”

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