WHO Accuses Ultra-Processed Food Companies of Blocking Global Health Measures Through Lawsuits

WHO Accuses Ultra-Processed Food Companies of Blocking Global Health Measures Through Lawsuits
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has accused major ultra-processed food companies of obstructing efforts to combat the global obesity crisis by challenging government health policies through legal action.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said litigation by food corporations has delayed the introduction of measures aimed at promoting healthier diets, including front-of-package warning labels, restrictions on unhealthy food advertising, and taxes on junk food. He warned that such actions have increased legal and healthcare costs for governments.

The comments followed a multi-country investigation that identified 235 lawsuits filed between 2010 and 2025 against health policies targeting ultra-processed foods in countries including Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

The investigation found that many legal challenges focused on food labeling regulations, followed by taxes and marketing restrictions. Although most resolved cases were unsuccessful for companies, health officials said the lawsuits often delayed the implementation of public health measures.

The WHO estimates that nearly one billion people worldwide are living with obesity, with unhealthy diets contributing to rising rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.

Tedros called on food companies to end legal challenges and support government efforts to address obesity and improve public health.