Not all ultra-processed foods are bad, and a few are even considered to be 'good for your health'

For years, people have heard the same nutrition advice: whole foods are healthy and processed foods are unhealthy. The message sounds simple and easy to follow. Fresh fruits and vegetables are good. Packaged foods are bad. But scientists are now finding that the story is much more complicated. New research shows that not all ultra-processed foods affect the body in the same way. Some are clearly linked to health problems, while others may actually support a healthy diet. Because of this, researchers and health experts are starting to rethink how these foods should be viewed.

Not all ultra-processed foods are bad, and a few are even considered to be 'good for your health'. For years, people have heard the same nutrition advice: whole foods are healthy and processed foods are unhealthy. The message sounds simple and easy to follow. Fresh fruits and vegetables are good. Packaged foods are bad. But scientists are now finding that the story is much more complicated. New research shows that not all ultra-processed foods affect the body in the same way. Some are clearly linked to health problems, while others may actually support a healthy diet. Because of this, researchers and health experts are starting to rethink how these foods should be viewed. One category hides the differences The term “ultra-processed food ” comes from a system called NOVA. It describes foods made with industrial ingredients, additives, or p...