Overview

• Researchers identified 28 blood and 33 urine metabolites that reliably correlate with ultra-processed food consumption.
• The findings were validated in a controlled feeding trial where participants alternated between diets high and devoid of ultra-processed foods.
• These metabolomic tests offer a more accurate method to measure dietary intake compared to memory-based food recalls.
• Ultra-processed foods account for over 50% of daily caloric intake in the U.S. and are linked to increased mortality and chronic disease risks.
• Further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of these tests in larger, more diverse populations and to assess their long-term health implications.