Lead: Tobacco industry contributions to the development of ultraprocessed food in the United States, 1985–2007: A case study of Lunchables

Tobacco industry contributions to the development of ultraprocessed food in the United States, 1985–2007: A case study of Lunchables American Journal of Public Health Tobacco firms began acquiring US food companies in the 1960s-1990s to increase revenues and leverage research and development across holdings in tobacco, alcohol, and ultra-processed foods (UPF) subsidiaries. In this case study, the authors examine the development of Lunchables® following Phillip Morris (PMC) acquisition of Kraft and General Foods (KGF). PMC applied a “consumer-driven product development” strategy, previously used for tobacco, in the development process to maximize consumer appeal. PMC also used technologies from KGF to make lower-nicotine cigarettes and then low-fat versions of Lunchables®, in a “better-for-you” strategy to preserve market share in the face of health concerns about both products. The authors suggest public health strategies and policies used to address tobacco could be expanded to UPFs to reduce harm to children.   Read this issue of the ASAM Weekly Subscribe to the ASAM Weekly Visit ASAM