Food Junkies Podcast Ep. 256: Dr. Erica LaFata – Diagnosing Ultra-Processed Food Addiction with FASI

In this episode, Dr. Erica LaFata returns to share the development of the Food Addiction Severity Interview (FASI), the first clinician-administered diagnostic tool designed specifically for ultra-processed food addiction. We explore how FASI builds on the YFAS, why the field needs structured clinical assessment, and how clinicians can differentiate restrictive eating, binge eating, and true addictive patterns. Erica also offers insight into treatment implications, early exposure risks, practitioner competencies, and the hopeful path toward DSM recognition.