Ultra-processed foods and bowel cancer: Look beyond the label

Not all processed foods tell the same story. A study of over 461,000 adults found no significant link between total ultra-processed food intake and colorectal cancer. However, meat from these sources was associated with higher risk, while fibre-rich foods and whole grains showed a different pattern. This observational study cannot prove cause and effect. The takeaway: look beyond the label, prioritise dietary quality and limit processed meat.

Source: PLOS Medicine study.