What is considered processed food?
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Processed foods are generally defined as foods that go through a series of industrial processes to enhance their taste, shelf life, or convenience. According to the Mind Pump Podcast:
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Processed vs. Ultra-Processed: Processed foods might include minimally altered items like cut meat or cleaned fruits, while ultra-processed foods are extremely modified, often unrecognizable from their original form. An example of ultra-processed food is a gummy worm, while a less processed item might be plain yogurt 1 2.
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Common Features: These foods typically have multiple ingredients, come in packages, and have longer shelf lives. They are often designed to be hyper-palatable, which can lead to overconsumption. Examples include snack foods like potato chips, processed meats like hot dogs, and convenience items like protein bars or candy 2 3.
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Levels of Processing: Even foods considered minimally processed may still undergo some processing for safety and convenience. A steak, for instance, is processed to some extent to be packaged and sold in stores, though it is less processed than something like beef jerky 4 5.
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Purpose and Technology: Historical and technological advancements in food processing have allowed for greater food security and diversity, enhancing the ability to ship food globally and fortify it with essential nutrients, like iodine in salt or vitamins in cereals 6 7.
Understanding the degrees of processing helps in making informed dietary choices, acknowledging both the convenience and potential health impacts of processed foods.
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