A new study says about 150,000 deaths each year in the United States could be delayed if large food companies sold more healthy packaged foods. Researchers from the Access to Nutrition Initiative and ShareAction looked at almost 10,000 products made by 24 big companies. These companies make about 37% of all packaged food and drinks in the US. The study examined things like biscuits, sweets, soft drinks, baked goods, sauces, and salty snacks.

This happened because many packaged foods are high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. The researchers say companies could help people stay healthier by making these foods better and promoting healthier choices that already exist. They do not want companies to stop selling packaged foods. They suggest changes like using less sugar or salt, making healthier food cheaper, or putting healthy items in easy-to-see places.

The study found that if people bought the healthiest products, fewer people would die from heart disease and other diet-related illnesses. This would help millions of people live longer, healthier lives.