A new study has revealed that what you eat might play a bigger role in your risk of developing lung cancer than previously thought. Researchers have found a possible link between consuming large amounts of ultraprocessed foods and an increased likelihood of lung cancer — adding to the growing list of health issues tied to these products.
Ultraprocessed foods are items that go far beyond basic cooking and contain ingredients rarely used in home kitchens. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) defines them as foods that include artificial additives, preservatives, colorings, and emulsifiers designed to enhance taste, appearance, and shelf life. Think of things like chips, sodas, frozen meals, instant noodles, packaged soups, or ice cream — all staples of the modern diet.
Ultraprocessed Foods Linked to Higher Cancer Risk
According to the study published in Thorax, individuals who consumed the highest amounts of ultraprocessed foods were 41% more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer compared to those who ate the least. Researchers analyzed data from more than 100,000 adults who shared details about their eating habits through national dietary surveys. Their records were then matched with medical data on lung cancer diagnoses.
The analysis revealed that the most commonly eaten ultraprocessed foods were lunch meats, soft drinks (both caffeinated and diet), and packaged snacks. On average, participants consumed about three servings daily.
Researchers believe that heavy industrial processing changes the structure of foods, which can affect how nutrients are absorbed while introducing harmful substances. One compound highlighted in the study is acrolein—a toxic chemical that can form when fats and oils are heated at high temperatures. It’s also found in tobacco smoke and pollution. Additionally, chemicals from food packaging may play a role in increasing risk.
While the study’s findings show a strong association, experts stress that it does not prove causation. Dr. David Katz, a preventive medicine specialist and founder of the True Health Initiative, explained that although the study cannot confirm that ultraprocessed foods directly cause lung cancer, it offers convincing evidence that diet could contribute to risk.
Why Non-Smokers Should Also Pay Attention
Lung cancer remains one of the most common cancers worldwide, with over 2.4 million new cases reported in 2022, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Although smoking is the leading cause, many non-smokers also develop the disease, suggesting that environmental and dietary factors might also be involved.
Interestingly, researchers noted that the association between ultraprocessed food intake and lung cancer was even stronger among people who never smoked.
Dr. Fang Fang Zhang from Tufts University emphasized that more research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind this link. Possible explanations include higher levels of inflammation, chemical exposure, and nutrient deficiencies caused by poor diet quality.
Experts agree that ultraprocessed foods are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats while lacking essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to help reduce inflammation. Over time, this imbalance may damage the body’s immune response, making it easier for abnormal cells to grow and form cancer.
Building a Healthier Plate for Prevention
To lower risk, nutrition experts recommend focusing on a whole-food diet rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Reading ingredient labels can also help—if the list is long or full of unfamiliar names, it’s likely ultraprocessed.
Making gradual changes is key. As Dr. Katz advises, start by replacing one processed food at a time with a more natural alternative. Over a few weeks, your palate will adapt, and you’ll likely find yourself craving wholesome foods instead.
In short, the study adds another strong reason to rethink what’s on your plate — because what you eat could do much more than satisfy your hunger; it could protect your health in the long run.
