What are processed foods?

What are processed foods and what does 鈥減rocessing鈥� mean and look like on your plate?

It can sometimes be hard to tell which foods are more processed than others.

Processed foods aren’t just what we call ready meals. They are food that has been changed somehow during preparation, including:

  • Canning
  • Cooking
  • Drying
  • Freezing
  • Peeling, chopping and slicing
  • Smoking

Some processed foods contain a lot of salt, sugar or fat. Some include a lot of preservatives, dyes, colouring, added flavours and non-sugar sweeteners.

Therefore, it is important to enjoy these foods in moderation - and try to eat less processed foods more frequently.

Shops and supermarkets are stacked with all sorts of foods made by different companies. This can make it hard to know what’s processed and what’s not when we try to make healthy food choices.

Illustration of someone thinking and deciding what foods are processed and not

Battle of the baskets

Does it come in a can, a box or plastic wrap?

This activity will let you investigate which foods are more processed than others.

You’ll have 20 foods and two baskets - and one minute to sort the less processed foods from the more processed items.

We’ll also give you some ideas for making quick and easy snacks and meals that are less processed – but very tasty and healthy.

Quick, easy and healthy recipes for you to try

Looking for ideas to make quick and easy snacks and meals that are less processed 鈥� but very tasty and healthy?

Priya Tew is a Specialist Dietitian and Nutritionist. She has created a special recipe book for you to download for free.

To find out more about Priya and her work, please visit her  and browse her gallery.