- New research says some processed foods can be addictive.
- Researchers examined common snacks, sugary drinks and fast-food products.
- These products are made to encourage repeat eating often.
- People may find some snacks very hard to stop.
- Authors say eating is not the same as smoking.
- They say people should think differently about food.
- Policy could move from blaming people to company accountability.
- A university news release also reported the findings.
Difficult words
- processed — food changed or prepared in a factory
- addictive — causes people to want more and more
- researcher — a person who studies or tests thingsResearchers
- encourage — make someone want to do something again
- policy — a rule or plan made by a group
- accountability — responsibility for actions or decisions
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you eat processed snacks?
- Do you find some snacks hard to stop eating?
- Should companies be responsible for food products?
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