Ultra-processed foods and environmental degradation: a systematic review of multidimensional environmental impact metrics

Purpose Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have become dominant in the global food system. They are considered one of the etiological factors in the global syndemic of obesity, malnutrition and climate change. UPFs are characterized by poor nutritional composition and pose a threat to local food diversity and cultural traditions. Furthermore, their environmental impacts have recently come under scrutiny. This study aims to identify existing evidence on the environmental impacts associated with UPFs. Design/methodology/approach The review was conducted in three databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus and EMBASE) in March 2025. The PECOS acronym was used to establish the eligibility criteria. The search and selection of studies, as well as data extraction, were performed by two researchers, with discrepancies resolved by a third. The methodological quality of the included studies was also assessed. Findings UPFs contribute to multiple environmental impacts and are associated with increased greenhouse gas emissions, water use, land use, higher acidification and eutrophication potential, water scarcity, plastic consumption, larger carbon, water and ecological footprints, depletion of fossil resources and increased energy demand. Originality/value UPFs contribute significantly to current environmental degradation, with profound implications for human, animal and ecosystem health.