Tobacco Tactics Fuel the Global Ultra-Processed Food Crisis

This investigation reveals how tobacco companies have repurposed their well-documented marketing playbook—targeting vulnerable populations, exploiting regulatory gaps, and leveraging addiction science—to globalize ultra-processed foods. The parallel is alarming: just as tobacco became a leading cause of preventable death, ultra-processed foods now drive the obesity and chronic disease epidemic. Understanding this corporate strategy is essential for regulators and health advocates to prevent another preventable public health catastrophe.