Big Food’s Tobacco Moment: Evidence on the Harms of Ultra-Processed Food

Join us as the American Journal of Public Health (AJPH) and leading scientists present groundbreaking, U.S.-focused research on the health impacts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). This work will be published in the July issue of AJPH, released on June 3.

A majority of the U.S. diet now consists of ultra-processed food, contributing to rising rates of obesity-related chronic disease. U.S. government agencies have both a legal and ethical responsibility to protect the public’s health through evidence-based interventions that address these harms.

The official launch of this feature section in the July issue will be held both in-person in Washington, D.C. and virtually on Wednesday, June 3 at 11 a.m. Attendees will receive a briefing directly from the authors and gain early insight into new research documenting how ultra-processed foods are impacting the health of Americans—and what can be done in response.

In addition to new evidence of UPF consumption and health in the U.S. foodscape, the issue includes new studies highlighting the pivotal role of major tobacco companies in scaling up leading UPF brands within the U.S. food supply. It also features expert analysis on how tobacco-style regulation and public litigation strategies could help reverse the harms of ultra-processed foods, drawing on lessons from the nation’s successful efforts to reduce tobacco-related disease.

Space is limited for the in-person event. To RSVP and be considered for the in-person event, sign up for a ticket now. Additional venue information will be distributed in advance. Those outside of Washington, D.C. or unable to attend in-person are encouraged to sign up to receive a link to view the live-stream on YouTube.

We look forward to your participation in this timely and impactful convening.