Bibliometric review uncovers links between ultra-processed foods, gut dysbiosis, and colon cancer pathways, highlighting the need for prospective studies and clearer nutritional labeling.
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) contain little or no intact whole food and are designed to be convenient, affordable, and highly palatable. UPFs are spiked with added sugars and synthetic additives, which in turn lead to obesity and health-related complications if left unaddressed. This bibliometric review analyses 273 articles published between 2013 and 2025 retrieved from the Scopus database to uncover the scientific trends, influential contributors, research hotspots, and emerging gaps and trending topics in UPFs and their link to colon cancer. Moreover, microbiome dysbiosis and mechanistic links to UPF consumption and its link with inflammatory and oncogenic pathways are uncovered, along with additional information on recent concerns in UPF intake with emphasis on research gaps and future directions. Therefore, by identifying research hotspots, underexplored regions, and collaboration dynamics, our review provides a strategic overview of this trending topic and stresses the need for more cohort and prospective studies. Further, this narrative review also discusses the need for the most transparent nutritional labels and the use of powerful technology like artificial intelligence (AI) for personalised health choices.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Nayak et al. (2026) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: