what people in the UK (and elsewhere to a lesser degree) are eating isn't unhealthy because it is "ultra processed", it is unhealthy because it consists of 80% fat&sugar.
Processing is still significant, as it includes the use of food additives to extends the self life and maintain quality. Salt is also a big component, as it flavour enhancer.
I suspect this is in the news partly due to a recently published book on the subject [1] which has been selling very well.
The book takes a rather expansive view of what counts as 'ultra-processed' - it's not just things like coca-cola and ice cream; apparently Hovis Wholemeal bread and margarine both count as ultra-processed.
what people in the UK (and elsewhere to a lesser degree) are eating isn't unhealthy because it is "ultra processed", it is unhealthy because it consists of 80% fat&sugar.