India, Nov. 19 -- Ultra-processed foods are directly linked to increased health risks for 12 diseases, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, depression and heart, kidney and gastrointestinal conditions, according to a major series published Tuesday in The Lancet, that also found that diets are now full of such foods, replacing fresh and minimally processed, traditional home-cooked meals globally.

These industrially manufactured products-packaged snacks, instant noodles, sugary cereals, carbonated soft drinks, ready-to-eat meals and processed meats-have become ubiquitous in supermarkets, corner shops and increasingly in rural markets worldwide.

Of 104 studies reviewed, 92 showed a link between ultra-processed dietary patterns and increased...