LOS ANGELES, CA – July 2025 — Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) now make up more than 60% of the American diet, and a new national survey from Lifesum, the AI-powered nutrition platform, reveals a troubling picture: 74% of U.S. adults say UPFs are damaging their mental and physical health — yet most can’t even identify them on a food label. 

Shockingly, nearly half (48%) of Americans believe they’re addicted to ultra-processed foods while 63% say figuring out what qualifies as a UPF is more confusing than filing their taxes — even as global research links UPFs to early death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cognitive decline.

The nationally representative survey of 5,000 adults, conducted in June 2025, uncovers a society trapped in a cycle of confusion, addiction, and frustration.

Over half (59%) of Americans  have tried — and failed — to cut back on UPFs, citing cravings (46%), convenience (41%), and not knowing what to eat instead (33%).

“We’re not just dealing with a nutrition crisis — this is a full-blown mental health and societal crisis,” says Signe Svanfeldt, Lead Nutritionist at Lifesum. “People know ultra-processed foods are harming them, but they’re overwhelmed, misled by marketing, and left without clear, actionable guidance.”

A Stark Knowledge Gap:

• 63% say defining a UPF is more confusing than filing their taxes
• 76% were surprised to learn that oat milk, protein bars, and many plant-based meats are considered UPFs
• Just 11% feel very confident identifying a UPF on a nutrition label

Consequences Beyond Confusion:

• 74% say UPFs negatively impact their mood, energy, focus, or burnout levels
• 45% believe their mental health struggles may be linked to what they eat

Growing Public Demand for Change:

• 80% want food manufacturers to be legally required to clearly label UPFs
• 68% support health warnings — with nearly 1 in 3 calling for UPFs to be regulated like tobacco

Thinking About the Next Generation:

• 81% of parents say they want their children to mostly or entirely avoid UPFs

“This isn’t about blame — it’s about empowerment,” adds Svanfeldt. “Americans are asking for transparency, education, and tools to help them make better choices without shame or confusion. That’s where tech like AI-powered food tracking can make a real difference.”

Lifesum’s research comes as the UPF debate gains traction in Washington and beyond. The company is calling for mandatory front-of-pack labeling, AI-driven food transparency, and a national awareness campaign to help Americans understand what UPFs really are — and how to cut back, without sacrificing convenience or taste.

Media Enquiries: Signe Svanfeldt, Lead Nutritionist at Lifesum, is available for interviews
Media Contact: Harry Cymbler, Hot Cherry PR | harry@hotcherry.co.uk

About Lifesum
Lifesum is a global AI-powered nutrition platform helping people make smarter food choices and develop sustainable, long-term eating habits. Whether you're aiming to improve mental focus, manage your weight, or optimize your overall wellbeing, Lifesum delivers personalized nutrition insights, meal plans, recipes, and tracking tools that fit your lifestyle. Explore more at www.lifesum.com