More understanding is needed around ultra-processed food (UPFs) rather than a “categorical rejection” of this type of food, experts have warned.
New Australian research has highlighted that “not all UPFs are inherently ‘bad’” and that some, such as whole-grain fortified cereals, could have potential benefits.
The team behind the findings say a more nuanced answer is required when it comes to asking if UPFs are bad for you.
- Small amounts of ultra-processed foods linked to higher risk of chronic diseases
- Ultra-processed foods can put older adults at greater risk of depression
- Ultra-processed foods are fuelling a rise in autism cases, study highlights
They say that the health implications linked to UPFs depend on various factors, including processing methods, nutritional make-up, and the context of a person’s overall diet.
Study author Associate Professor Jimmy Louie said: “Headlines make it sound like all ultra-processed foods are bad, but the truth is more complicated. Some can offer real nutritional value and fit comfortably into a healthy diet.
“That kind of oversimplification can mislead the public and distract from the most pressing dietary risks.”
Researchers analysed the Nova system, a commonly used classification which divides foods into four groups based on their level of processing. It has attracted some criticism for how it defines processed versus ultra-processed foods.
Associate Professor Louie says the public needs a clearer, more balanced system that considers both processing and nutrition.
He said: “While the classification of foods based on processing has made valuable contributions to our understanding of health, it fails to capture important distinctions in nutritional quality, processing methods, and health implications.
- Ultra-processed foods tied to greater risk of depression and anxiety
- Weight gain associated with high intake of ultra-processed foods
- Accelerated biological ageing associated with ultra-processed foods
“People deserve advice that makes that distinction. The evidence shows we can be smarter about which processed foods we avoid and which we keep.”
Associate Professor Louie also highlighted that UPFs can often provide valuable nutrients for people on a tighter budget and can also help to reduce food waste because of the longer shelf life.
He added: “Not everyone can live on only minimally processed foods. Nutritionally sound processed foods can be a healthy, practical choice.”
Read more in Proceedings of the Nutrition Society.
