The term “processed foods” refers to those that have been altered from their original state through methods including preserving, cooking, freezing, dehydrating, and others.
Below are ten examples of processed foods that are common in the modern diet.
Characteristics of processed foods
- Breads and Cereals: They are made from grains that have been ground, mixed with other ingredients and cooked.
- Sausages: These include products such as sausages and ham, which contain meat preserved with salt, nitrites or other preservatives.
- Cheeses: Many cheeses are processed by adding ingredients to modify the texture or flavor.
- Packaged Snacks: Such as potato chips, which often contain trans fats and sweeteners.
- Sugary Drinks: Soft drinks and juices that contain added sugars and preservatives.
- What are Sugars?
Sugars are simple carbohydrates that add sweet flavor to foods and drinks. They are found naturally in fruits and milk, but are also added to many processed foods to improve flavor.
Ultra-processed foods
- Precooked Meals: These foods are ready for immediate consumption or require minimal preparation. They include frozen meals, canned soups, and prepared pizzas.
- Sweets and Chocolates: They contain added sugars, fats and other processed culinary ingredients.
- Canned Fruits and Vegetables: Although canned foods can be an accessible source of nutrients, they often contain added sugars and salts.
- Sweeteners are used to provide sweetness without the calorie content of traditional sugars. They appear in diet and low-calorie products.
What are processed culinary ingredients?
These ingredients are used to enhance the flavor, texture, or shelf life of foods. They include sugars, oils, fats, salt and sweeteners.
Why do processed foods harm your health?
Excessive consumption of processed foods can lead to health problems due to the presence of unhealthy ingredients such as added sugars, salt, trans fats and artificial preservatives. These can contribute to chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
Trans fat
- Margarine: A product that often contains trans fats, which are linked to heart disease.
- Fast Food: Many fast food items are prepared with oils that contain trans fats.
READ ALSO. 10 examples of minimally processed foods
It is essential to be aware of processed foods and their ingredients to make informed dietary choices.
Although some can be part of a balanced diet, others, especially ultra-processed ones, should be consumed in moderation due to their unhealthy ingredients and their relationship with various chronic diseases.
Nutrition information and ingredient lists on packaging provide crucial details to help consumers make informed decisions about their diet and health.