The battle over "food addiction".

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Metabolic Disease Research
• Addiction Studies

Background:

• Decades of research on nutrition, obesity, and diabetes have not resolved the scientific debate on food addiction.
• Despite worsening chronic metabolic diseases, consensus on food addiction remains elusive due to various rationalizations and differing interpretations of evidence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the history and current state of the food addiction controversy.
• To identify foods most likely to be addictive and explore the underlying pathogenic mechanisms.
• To analyze the food industry's influence on the narrative and propose a way forward.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of the food addiction debate.
• Analysis of scientific literature on addictive properties of specific foods and food components.
• Examination of proposed mechanisms for food addiction.
• Critical assessment of the food industry's role and public health messaging.

Main Results:

• The concept of food addiction faces significant scientific and public debate, with arguments against it focusing on necessity of food, personal responsibility, and lack of definitive proof.
• Certain foods, particularly ultra-processed items, are suggested as potential candidates for addictive properties, though definitive criteria remain debated.
• Two key mechanisms are proposed to be involved in the pathogenesis of food addiction, requiring further elucidation.

Conclusions:

• A clear scientific consensus on food addiction is lacking, hindered by complex factors including differing definitions of addiction and the nature of food.
• Understanding the specific mechanisms and identifying the most culpable food types are crucial for scientific acceptance.
• Addressing the food industry's role in shaping perceptions is vital for progressing the debate and informing public health strategies.