What are Ultra Processed Foods & what's the problem with them?
Ultra Processed Food (UPFs) make up around 60% of the average adult, and around 70% of childrens diet in the UK. They have become a staple part of the food we eat everyday for many people. They are convenient, affordable, and designed to taste delicious. However, this convenience often comes at a huge cost to our health. Ultra-processed foods are heavily modified products that contains ingredients you wouldn't find in your kitchen and are industrially processed, and their regular consumption has been linked to a host of serious health problems.
"Edible food-like substances"
We all know that a diet of crisps, cake and chocolate is not good for us, but many of us do not realise how many of our regular food choices from bread to flavoured yogurts are also UPFs. These products often have health benefits prominently displayed on their packaging such as 'a source of fibre' or 'free from artificial flavourings' which give the impression that they form part of a good diet.
What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?
Ultra-processed foods are industrial formulations made mostly from substances extracted from foods, such as oils, fats, sugars, and starches, along with additives like artificial flavours, preservatives, and emulsifiers. These foods typically have a long shelf life and are engineered to be hyper-palatable.
Examples include:
Pre-packaged meals (frozen dinners, instant noodles)
Soft drinks and energy drinks
Industrialised bread, cakes, and pastries
Sweetened breakfast cereals
Processed meats like sausages, nuggets, and reconstituted meat products
These foods are often devoid of the natural nutrients found in whole, unprocessed foods and are designed to prioritize convenience, taste, and shelf stability.