Ultra-processed foods are widely available, inexpensive, and convenient. However, growing evidence suggests that frequent consumption may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease — the leading cause of death in the United States.
A new study examining a racially and ethnically diverse group of adults found that higher intake of ultra-processed foods was associated with greater risk of heart disease. The association appeared especially strong among Black Americans.
The findings were published in JACC Advances.
What Counts as Ultra-Processed Food?
Ultra-processed foods typically contain additives such as preservatives, artificial flavors, sweeteners, emulsifiers, and stabilizers. These ingredients improve shelf life and convenience but may affect nutritional quality.
Common examples include:
- Chips and crackers
- White bread
- Pizza and hamburgers
- Sugary cereals
- Soda
- Candy and packaged snack foods
Diets high in these products have previously been linked to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
A More Diverse Study Population
Earlier research connecting ultra-processed foods to heart disease often relied on study populations with limited racial and ethnic diversity. To address this gap, investigators analyzed data from more than 6,800 adults enrolled in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA).
Participants ranged in age from 45 to 84 and did not have cardiovascular disease at the start of the study. Researchers followed them for approximately 12 years, collecting detailed information about diet, lifestyle, and health outcomes.
Food questionnaires allowed investigators to estimate the number of ultra-processed food servings consumed each day and assess overall diet quality. Cardiovascular events were identified using medical records.
On average, participants consumed about four servings of ultra-processed foods daily, representing roughly 28% of total food intake. Among the highest consumers, the proportion reached about 41%.
Higher Intake Associated With Greater Heart Risk
Consistent with earlier research, the study found that people who consumed the most ultra-processed foods had a significantly higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.
Participants with the highest intake were about 67% more likely to experience heart-related events compared with those who consumed the least. Sugary ultra-processed foods appeared to contribute particularly strongly to risk.
When researchers examined results across racial and ethnic groups, differences became more pronounced.
Among Black participants, each additional daily serving of ultra-processed food was associated with a 6.1% increase in cardiovascular risk, compared with 3.2% per serving in other groups.
Researchers emphasized that these differences are unlikely to reflect biological causes alone. Instead, they may be linked to long-standing structural and environmental factors that influence access to healthy food options.
Communities with fewer grocery stores offering fresh foods — sometimes called “food deserts” — may rely more heavily on packaged and processed products.
Why Ultra-Processed Foods May Affect Heart Health
Although the study identified a strong association, it does not prove that ultra-processed foods directly cause heart disease.
Experts note that these foods often contain higher amounts of:
- Sodium
- Added sugars
- Saturated and trans fats
These ingredients are known to increase blood pressure, raise cholesterol levels, promote weight gain, and contribute to inflammation — all of which can increase cardiovascular risk over time.
Researchers also emphasize that diet is only one of several factors influencing heart health.
Conditions such as smoking and diabetes are associated with larger increases in cardiovascular risk. However, dietary choices remain important because they are modifiable.
Addressing Diet and Health Inequities
The findings highlight the need for strategies that improve access to affordable, nutritious foods across communities.
Public health efforts may include:
- Expanding availability of fresh produce
- Supporting healthier retail food environments
- Reducing barriers to nutritious food options
Experts say these approaches could help reduce disparities in cardiovascular disease risk while improving overall population health.
While ultra-processed foods are not the only factor affecting heart disease risk, reducing their intake — especially sugary and highly refined products — may be one practical step individuals can take to support long-term cardiovascular health.
