What are industrial formulations of five or more ingredients?

Ultra-processed foods are products that are made from industrial formulations containing five or more ingredients. These foods are designed to be convenient, tasty, and have a long shelf life. They often include additives like preservatives, sweeteners, and artificial flavors.

Characteristics of Ultra-Processed Foods:

1. Multiple Ingredients: They usually have five or more ingredients, including substances not commonly used in home cooking.
2. Additives: These foods often contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives to improve taste and appearance.
3. Highly Processed: The ingredients undergo several processing steps, making them very different from their original form.

Examples:

• Packaged snacks like chips or cookies.
• Sugary drinks and sodas.
• Instant noodles and ready-to-eat meals.

While these foods can be convenient, they are often less nutritious than whole or minimally processed foods. It's important to balance your diet with fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for better health.