“Processed foods are unhealthy.”
Strong confidence because processing includes many useful steps such as freezing, cooking, pasteurizing, fermenting and fortifying. Research does not support treating all processed foods as unhealthy. Nutrition varies by the specific food, amount and overall eating pattern.
Processed foods are not automatically unhealthy. Yogurt, canned beans, frozen vegetables, whole-grain bread and many other nutritious foods are processed.
Processing is a spectrum, not a health verdict. Some processed foods are high in calories, sodium or added sugar, while others improve safety, convenience, affordability or nutrition.
Look at what the food provides and how often you eat it. The word processed by itself does not tell you whether a food supports your goals.
Can processed foods make healthy eating easier?
Yes. Processed foods can save time, reduce waste, improve food safety and make nutritious food more accessible.
You do not need to avoid packages or cook everything from scratch. Choose a mix of foods that works for your budget, schedule and health goals.
Keep one convenient processed food that helps you eat well, such as canned beans, frozen produce, yogurt or whole-grain bread.
Similar claims on Ultra-processed foods (UPFs)
“Ultra-processed foods are toxic.”
FalseUltra-processed foods are not toxic, and you do not need to eliminate them to be healthy. They can fit into a healthy diet. The practical…
See the evidence“Ultra-processed foods make it easier to overeat.”
Mostly trueSome ultra-processed foods are easy to eat quickly, less filling and designed to be highly appealing, which can make overeating easier.…
See the evidenceYou don't need to fear every package. Shift the balance toward mostly whole and minimally processed foods, and pay special attention to cutting sugary drinks and processed meats - that's where the evidence is strongest.