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Category: Ultra processed foods

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

Understanding the NOVA System: Is Aspartame an UPF?

4 min read
According to the NOVA classification system, aspartame itself is not an ultra-processed food (UPF), but a key industrial ingredient frequently found in them. This distinction is crucial for understanding why certain products containing this common artificial sweetener fall into the UPF category.

Is Pectin UPF? Unpacking the Processing of a Common Gelling Agent

4 min read
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization's NOVA classification, ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are formulations of ingredients, often industrial, that go through extensive processing. This has led many to question whether a common ingredient like pectin is UPF, but the answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no.

Are any breads not ultra-processed?

4 min read
According to a 2025 study in the *British Medical Journal*, high intake of ultra-processed foods was linked to an increased risk of early death. Amidst this health trend, the question, "Are any breads not ultra-processed?" is a major concern for many consumers. The good news is that not all bread is ultra-processed; many healthier, minimally-processed options exist for informed consumers.

Is Blue Diamond almond milk ultra processed?

4 min read
According to the most widely used NOVA food classification system, many commercial plant-based milks, including almond milk, are considered ultra-processed. The question, 'Is Blue Diamond almond milk ultra processed?' leads to a nuanced answer that explores industrial techniques and added ingredients.

Are Bagels UPF? A Deep Dive into Nutrition and Processing

4 min read
According to research from institutions like the Center for Science in the Public Interest, breads and breakfast foods are a major contributor to the ultra-processed foods (UPF) in a typical diet, leading many to question, 'Are bagels UPF?'. While some bagels qualify as UPF, their classification depends heavily on the specific ingredients and how they are made.

Is pizza considered ultra-processed? A nutritional deep dive

4 min read
According to a study published in *The BMJ*, higher consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) was associated with an increased risk of mortality. With the rise of ready-to-eat convenience, many people wonder: **is pizza considered ultra-processed?** The answer, as with many foods, depends entirely on how it's made.

Are Mr Kipling cakes ultra processed? A deep dive into nutrition and diet

4 min read
According to the NOVA food classification system, which categorizes food based on its degree of processing, many packaged cakes fall into the most processed group. This leads to the central question: **Are Mr Kipling cakes ultra processed?** Understanding the manufacturing process and ingredients is crucial for making informed dietary choices and managing your overall nutrition.