An AI-generated model has shown what humans are expected to look like in 30 years if diets continue to be junk-food heavy – packed with ultra-processed food (UPFs). In the UK alone, between 2022-2023 findings by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities showed that 64% of those aged over 18 were either overweight or obese.
It’s also reported that Brits are the second biggest consumer of ultra-processed foods, just behind the US. ‘Michael’ is an AI rendering of what we can expect if we keep the bad habits up.
With hunchback shoulders, an acne-covered forehead, yellow eyes, and a droopy face and holding an inhaler, it’s expected that all of us will also have protruding bellies and at least two chins. Not only that, our legs will be swollen, often aching, with painful sores covering the skin and an increase in wrinkles.
The model comes as part of a report carried out by recipe box, Gousto. Their study hopes to raise awareness about the long-term impact of today’s eating habits and to shine a light on healthy eating barriers in the UK.
It’s projected that in the year 2055, an excessive intake of ultra-processed food and a lack of fresh, nutritious ingredients will cause an uptick in type 2 diabetes, fatty liver, and intra-abdominal fat. Anxiety and depression will increase, along with the presence of dry itchy skin due to dehydration and asthma.
Other side effects include adverse sleeping patterns, leading to fatigue, daytime drowsiness, irritability, poor concentration – and more stress – which will cause a fast onset of wrinkles. According to the study, 60% of Brits are unaware of the long-term impacts these foods have, with over 75% saying they want to eat healthier, but either don’t have the time or money.
Dr Hilary Jones, MBE, has partnered with Gousto on the Ultra Processed Plates reports to offer an expert’s insight into these worrying projections. He said: “Ultra-processed foods aren’t inherently harmful, but when they dominate our diets and replace fresh, nutrient-rich foods, they can increase the risk of long-term health issues like cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and nutrient deficiencies.
“A balanced diet full of fresh, whole ingredients is essential for preventing chronic conditions and supporting overall health. Scratch cooking is one of the most effective ways to minimise our ultra-processed food intake and maintain a balanced diet.”
Gousto’s CEO and co-founder, Timo Bold said the recipe box company has increased its menu to over 500 meals and says that 89% of its ingredients aren’t ultra-processed. He added: “I believe food is medicine, and the right diet helps us stay healthier for longer. But to truly empower people, we need greater transparency in the food industry and clear standards for classifying ultra-processed foods, so everyone can make better-informed choices for their health.”