Ultra-Processed Foods & Youth Health: A Growing Crisis

If you or your child were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) after regularly consuming ultra-processed foods, there are serious health and legal concerns you should know about. These products – often marketed as convenient and kid-friendly – are now linked to a growing health epidemic.

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?
Not all processed foods are harmful. Basic processing – like heating, canning, or pasteurizing – helps preserve food and make it safe. Most of what we eat is processed in some way. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs), however, are different. These are industrial products made from ingredients extracted or created in labs. They often contain artificial colors, preservatives, sweeteners, and chemical additives. While soda, candy, and chips are obvious examples, many UPFs are disguised as everyday staples:

■ Commercially packaged bread
■ Peanut butter
■ Breakfast cereals
■ Instant noodles
■ Fruit snacks
■ Granola and protein bars
■ Plant-based milks
■ Flavored yogurts
■ Bottled salad dressings

These foods are designed to be addictive – and often marketed as healthy, despite their risks.

How UPFs Target Youth
UPFs now make up nearly 70% of the daily calories consumed by children and teens aged 2 to 19. Manufacturers use bright packaging, cartoon mascots, and engineered flavors to appeal to young audiences. Because they’re cheap, convenient, and shelf-stable, UPFs have become a regular part of school lunches, vending machines, and home meals – crowding out healthier options.

What’s the Health Impact?
Research continues to link UPFs to serious health problems in youth:

■ NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) A 2023 study found a strong connection between UPFs and NAFLD. This condition, once rare in children, is now as common as asthma.
■ Type 2 Diabetes Nearly 90% of people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese.
UPFs – high in sugar, fat, and refined carbs – are a major contributor. Since 1980, childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes rates have tripled.

What’s Being Done?
In late 2024, lawsuits were filed against major food companies for promoting and manufacturing ultra-processed foods linked to chronic illness. These claims allege that:
■ Products were intentionally designed to be addictive
■ Companies failed to warn consumers about health risks
■ Marketing tactics mirrored those used by tobacco companies – prioritizing profits over public health

What Should You Do?
We’re investigating cases involving type 2 diabetes and NAFLD in individuals, particularly those diagnosed before age 18. We offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options.

Have questions or want us to review your case? We’re here to help.