The concept of ultra-processed foods has become even more popular among American grocery shoppers. This phrase refers to foods that contain additives, including artificial colors and flavors, and may be made from substances extracted from foods such as fats, starches, and hydrogenated fats.It has become such a prominent topic that even the New York Times released a “Do you know how to identify ultra-processed foods?” May Quiz.
But for some people, there’s a kind of smug self-satisfaction in thinking, “Oh, super-processed food! I’m glad I didn’t eat it (fill in the blank here).” I think so. But the tricky part here is that the realm of ultra-processed foods really does include a ton of foods.
Yes, that includes things like soda, chips, and candy, as well as frozen convenience foods and fast food, but there’s so much more. Whether it’s fancy $9 watermelon juice, fancy lattes, protein bars, specialty iced teas, or convenience items from top specialty grocery stores, it’s all ultra-processed.
Why is this important? Because consuming ultra-processed foods carries potential health risks and contributes to illness and premature death.
As with anything, reconceptualizing your worldview (in this case, your refrigerator) may seem strange, but it’s really important. Next time you go shopping, take his seven-point list of unexpected foods that are actually ultra-processed, and probably healthy-looking foods.
Plant-based milks are a great solution for many people who avoid dairy products for a variety of reasons, but check your favorite brand’s ingredient list to find out what exactly is in the “milk” you’re drinking. It’s worth checking to see if there are any.
Baraclough reports that breads such as sourdough bread and pumpernickel are often less processed and not produced in large quantities. Also, pay attention to the expiration date. If it’s unusually long, it’s likely that the bread is super-processed, but if it has a short shelf life, it’s probably not very processed.
Margarine, coincidentally, was originally invented as a “healthier” alternative to the oft-maligned butter. However, it is now recognized that a large amount of processing is taking place. Margarine is made with different combinations of different oils (the same is true for cream cheese and other spreads), as opposed to butter, which usually contains only milk and salt.
In general, be careful with drinks in general. Most drinks, from protein shakes and sodas to coffee concoctions and many juices, contain sugar, artificial colors, and flavors.
In general, avoid it. They don’t offer much in terms of nutrition at all, and the amount of processing done to them essentially negates their negligible nutritional benefits.
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