Editorial Standards

How we create accurate, data-driven content about food processing — and the standards we hold ourselves to.

Our Data-First Approach

Every claim on Ultra Processed Food List is backed by data from the USDA FoodData Central database, which contains nutrition and ingredient information for 1.98 million food products sold in the United States.

We do not accept sponsored content, paid product placements, or advertiser influence over our analysis. Our processing scores are computed algorithmically from ingredient lists — no product receives a better or worse score based on brand relationships.

How Content Is Created

Our content creation follows a structured process:

  1. Data extraction — We query the USDA FoodData Central database for the relevant products, nutrients, or categories.
  2. Processing score calculation — Each product receives a processing score (1–32+) based on ingredient analysis. Products are classified into four processing levels: Minimally Processed, Processed, Highly Processed, and Ultra-Processed.
  3. Analysis and writing — Our editorial team interprets the data and writes guides that explain what the numbers mean for consumers.
  4. Fact-checking — All nutrient values, product names, and statistical claims are verified against source data before publication.
  5. Review — Content is reviewed for accuracy, clarity, and adherence to these editorial standards.

Source Standards

We cite the following types of sources:

  • USDA FoodData Central — Primary source for all product nutrition data, ingredient lists, and brand information.
  • Peer-reviewed research — Published studies from journals including BMJ, JAMA, Cell Metabolism, and The Lancet for health-related claims.
  • NOVA classification system — The internationally recognized framework developed by researchers at the University of São Paulo for categorizing foods by degree of processing.
  • Government dietary guidelines — USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans and FDA Daily Reference Values for nutrient recommendations.

We do not cite social media posts, anonymous blogs, or manufacturer marketing materials as authoritative sources.

Processing Score Methodology

Our processing scores are derived from ingredient list analysis. The scoring algorithm considers:

  • Number of ingredients
  • Presence of additives (artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, emulsifiers)
  • High-fructose corn syrup and other ultra-processed sweeteners
  • Hydrogenated and modified oils
  • Protein isolates and other industrially refined components

For complete methodology details, see our Processing Score Guide.

Expert Review

We are building an Expert Review Board of registered dietitians and food scientists to review health-related content. Pages that have been reviewed by a credentialed expert display a "Reviewed by" byline with the reviewer's name and credentials.

Until expert review is in place, all content is published under our organizational byline and clearly labeled as informational — not medical or nutritional advice.

Updates and Corrections

We update content when the underlying data changes — such as when the USDA updates its database or when new research is published that affects our methodology.

If you find an error in our data or content, please contact us. We take corrections seriously and will update or correct published content promptly.

Disclaimer

This website provides informational content only.

Nothing on Ultra Processed Food List constitutes medical advice, nutritional counseling, or a diagnosis. Processing scores and nutrition data are presented for educational purposes. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making dietary changes based on information found on this site.