S6
Ep142: Are ultra-processed foods the new tobacco?
Food industry experts at Mintel dive into the complex world of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). They discuss consumer understanding of food processing and the impact of clean label trends. How do global variations in food regulations and market preferences pose challenges for the food industry? Tune in to find out more!
Head over to Mintel’s LinkedIn to let us know what you think of this episode, and visit mintel.com to become a member of our free Spotlight community.
Find out how Mintel Consulting helps you make better strategic marketing decisions. Discover Mintel Ingredientscape AI and innovate with confidence.
(00:03) Introduction
(01:21) Discussion on Clean Label and consumer understanding
(04:40) NutriScore and its adoption
(06:52) WHO study on Ultra-Processed Foods
(08:45) Convenience and affordability as purchase drivers
(11:12) Industry response to Ultra-Processed Foods
(13:44) Regulatory challenges for the food industry
(15:33) Varying demographic perception to Ultra-Processed Foods
(18:03) What do young consumers think
(22:05) Key takeaways
Meet the Host
Lynn Dornblaser
Principal Consultant, Mintel Consulting.
Meet the Guests
David Jago
Principal Consultant, Mintel Consulting.
Stephanie Mattucci
CFS, Director, Food and Drink Research, Mintel.
About the Author
Mintel News
For the latest in consumer and industry news, top trends and market perspectives, stay tuned to Mintel News featuring commentary from Mintel’s team of global category analysts.
More from Mintel
Discover your next big breakthrough
Get smart fast with our exclusive market research reports, delivering the latest data, innovation, trends and strategic recommendations....
Our Predictions go beyond traditional trend analysis. Download to get the predictive intelligence and strategic framework to shape the future of your industry in 2026 and beyond. ...
Mintel Most Innovative (MMI) awards recognize groundbreaking product innovations that reflect evolving consumer needs and signal the future direction of markets worldwide. One of the…
Social media fads like “girl dinner” snack plates, freeze-dried candy, and Dubai chocolate have helped to move multisensory snack and confectionery experiences into the mainstream. These viral product sensations…
This article distils the latest global drinks industry trends, consumer behaviours and emerging opportunities, powered by Mintel’s expert analysis and proprietary data.
Expo West 2026 offered a clear reflection of several long-running shifts Mintel has been tracking across health, nutrition, and consumer expectations. What stood out most this year was less…
Explore the key shifts shaping food and drink across Asia Pacific, from evolving definitions of value to everyday performance and culturally relevant innovation.
Rooted in the US Midwest, South, and Southeast, the Missed Majority reflects a broader consumer mindset often underrepresented in the data signals brands rely on most.
The UK has moved from omni- into permacrisis as economic pressure, geopolitical instability, the climate crisis and the accelerating race around AI have become part of everyday life.
Gain a complete view of the wellness marketplace and unlock wellness opportunities with predictive insight, thought leadership and the direction to fuel growth.
Through On-Demand, Consulting, and Integrations, or a combination of all three, equip your business with market intelligence to help you predict what's next.
You know Mintel for world trusted data and expert analysis, well we’re the “What’s next?” team. At Mintel Consulting, we’ll help you digest the data then apply customised insights to your specific growth goals.