Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are defined by the NOVA food classification system (developed by researchers led by Carlos Monteiro) as industrial formulations made mostly or entirely from substances extracted from foods (like oils, fats, sugars, and starches), plus additives (flavors, colors, emulsifiers, sweeteners, etc.), with little to no intact whole foods. They are Group 4 in the NOVA system and are designed to be hyper-palatable, convenient, and long-lasting. Not every item in these categories is automatically ultra-processed (it depends on the ingredient list and processing), but most commercial products in these groups qualify as UPFs. Here is a list of the main food groups/categories widely recognized as ultra-processed, with common examples: Sugary and sweetened beverages — Soft drinks, sodas, energy drinks, fruit-flavored drinks, and some sweetened juices or sports drinks. Packaged snacks (sweet or savory) — Chips, ...
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