The article critiques The Lancet for promoting dubious epidemiological claims regarding ultra-processed foods, drawing parallels to its past endorsements of the ‘vaccines cause autism’ theory and ‘Frankenfood’ movement. The author expresses concern that such a reputable journal lends credibility to misinformation, especially amidst public skepticism towards epidemiological studies. They assert that both the anti-science left and right are susceptible to narratives that align with their beliefs about corporate conspiracies in science.
The piece argues that the solution proposed—more government intervention—contradicts the effectiveness of evidence-based science, highlighting that weight management is primarily about calorie intake rather than food type. The author criticizes the reliance on correlations without scientific rigor and suggests that funding should be redirected away from institutions perceived as supporting anti-science agendas. Ultimately, they portray The Lancet as a platform for anti-scientific beliefs, echoing historical patterns of conspiracy theories and science denial within certain political and social circles.
