In August 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a report showing that more than half of Americans’ calories come from ultra-processed foods. These are foods like burgers, sweet baked goods, and frozen meals that are heavily modified with additives, sugar, and salt. The CDC analyzed food data from August 2021 to August 2023 and found that ultra-processed foods made up about 53% of adults’ total calories and nearly 62% for children and teenagers. The report stated that low-income adults consumed more of these foods than those with higher incomes.

Experts expressed concern that this eating pattern may be linked to long-term health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. A study published in Nature revealed that people eating minimally processed foods lost more weight than those consuming ultra-processed options, even when meals had similar nutrients. Researchers used the Nova system to define these foods based on the level of processing. They described them as hyperpalatable, high in unhealthy fats, low in fiber, and lacking whole food ingredients. Although defining ultra-processed food is still under discussion, the CDC emphasized the need for clearer food labels and healthier choices. Officials hope this report will catalyze national health campaigns. Some Americans have become more conscientious about their diets, but changing habits remains a transformative challenge. The government is also working toward a uniform definition of ultra-processed foods to improve food labeling and safety.