INCREASING evidence suggests that the high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) is linked to a greater risk of noncommunicable diseases, overweight, and obesity. A growing body of research also associates UPF with inflammatory diseases, particularly allergic conditions. To investigate this connection, a narrative review was conducted, assessing the impact of food additives on human health.
A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on publications from 2015 onward. Specific Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) such as “food additives and health,” “food additives and immune system,” and “food additives and diseases” were employed to identify relevant studies. The search yielded 2,308 results, with a final selection of 43 articles meeting the inclusion criteria. Only studies examining the direct impact of food additives on health were considered, ensuring the review captured recent scientific efforts in this domain.
One key area of concern is the role of emulsifiers in disrupting intestinal barrier function, altering gut microbiota, and promoting systemic inflammation. These disruptions may contribute to the development of food allergies and other inflammatory diseases. Common food additives have been linked to allergic reactions, intolerances, and increased sensitivity in certain individuals. The presence of artificial preservatives, sweeteners, and flavour enhancers in UPF further exacerbates these health risks.
The increasing dominance of UPF in modern diets has been justified by their affordability, convenience, and extended shelf life. However, observational studies indicate that higher UPF consumption is associated with an increased risk of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality. In a British cohort study, UPF intake was prospectively linked to a higher burden of cancer, particularly ovarian cancer in women. Other conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease and eosinophilic oesophagitis, have also been associated with high UPF consumption.
While food additives play a crucial role in food preservation and enhancement, their potential long-term effects on immune and metabolic health remain a growing concern. Further research is required to elucidate the mechanisms by which food additives influence immunological responses and to develop strategies that mitigate potential risks associated with their consumption.
Reference
Urrutia-Pereira M et al. Food additives and their impact on human health. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). 2025;DOI:10.15586/aei.v53i2.1149.
