Calls for clearer labelling on ultra‑processed food packaging in Ireland

Professor Luke O’Neill said on The Pat Kenny Show that clearer warnings on ultra‑processed food packaging could help reduce consumption.

Ultra‑processed foods are estimated to make up about 35 % of Irish diets, lower than the United States’ 50 % but higher than many other nations. A new analysis of more than 8.8 million people linked higher intake of these foods with increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, premature death, depression, anxiety and dementia.

O’Neill noted that countries with explicit labelling have seen consumption fall. He cited Chile’s traffic‑light style labels and a UK pilot that clearly identified ultra‑processed items, both of which led to reduced intake. France’s “Nutri‑Score” system, ranging from one (most nutritious) to five (least nutritious), was also mentioned as a recent trial.

The professor warned that inflammation caused by ultra‑processed foods may accelerate dementia and highlighted the 24 % higher risk of heart attacks and 27 % higher risk of mental health issues associated with such diets.

Potential labelling reforms

O’Neill urged food companies to make the presence of ultra‑processed ingredients more visible on packaging, arguing that informed consumers are likely to choose alternatives.

Source: Newstalk. Photo: Cats Coming / Pexels.