Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to 67% Higher Heart Disease Risk in New Study

Your daily snacks could be silently harming your heart. Scientists warn these foods hit marginalized groups hardest—here's why the stakes are higher than ever.

, and Administrator

2026 March 22 . 4:02 AM

1 min read

The image shows a poster with text that reads "healthy eating may reduce your risk of some kinds of... — The image shows a poster with text that reads "healthy eating may reduce your risk of some kinds of cancer" and a variety of food items, including a piece of bread, a strawberry, and some grapes.

Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to 67% Higher Heart Disease Risk in New Study

A new study has uncovered a worrying link between ultra-processed foods and heart disease risk. Published in JACC Advances, the research shows that high consumption of these foods raises the likelihood of cardiovascular problems by 67%. For Black Americans, the risk appears even greater—nearly double that of other groups per additional serving.

Ultra-processed foods contain high levels of additives, including preservatives, sweeteners, and artificial flavours. Often cheaper and more convenient than fresh options, they have long been associated with obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. The latest study builds on earlier findings by examining a more diverse population than previous research.

The findings suggest these foods may harm heart health by increasing blood pressure, raising cholesterol, and triggering inflammation that damages blood vessels. But the risks are not evenly distributed. Researchers point to systemic and structural factors, rooted in historical discrimination, as key reasons why Black Americans face a disproportionately higher risk.

While the study confirms a strong connection between ultra-processed food intake and heart disease, the authors stress that more research is needed. Gaps remain in understanding how health inequities shape vulnerability to these foods, particularly among marginalised groups.

The study reinforces warnings about the dangers of ultra-processed foods, especially for those already at higher risk. With Black Americans experiencing nearly twice the heart disease risk per extra serving, the findings highlight the need for targeted public health measures. Further investigation into structural factors could help address these disparities more effectively.