Overview
- Sapien Labs’ Global Mind Health 2025 analysis across 85 countries links frequent ultra-processed food intake with poorer emotional regulation, cognitive control and lower MHQ scores in 18–34-year-olds.
- After adjustments, researchers estimate frequent UPF consumption may account for roughly 15–30% of the overall mental health burden among young adults, with the strongest ties to depressive symptoms and impaired control.
- The report finds 41% of internet-enabled young adults globally have clinically significant mental health challenges, and they are nearly four times more likely than those 55+ to report serious impairment in daily functioning.
- Regular UPF use is reported by 54% of 18–34-year-olds worldwide; in India, 44% of young adults report regular intake versus 11% among those 55+, reflecting a sharp generational gap despite lower overall levels than in many Western nations.
- Policy advocates in India cite the report in urging warning labels, curbs on child-directed advertising, school food reforms and fiscal steps, echoing recent Supreme Court observations and Economic Survey 2025–26 recommendations; Indian MHQ scores are reported at 33 for ages 18–34 (rank 60/84) and 96 for 55+ (rank 49).