Frequently Asked Questions

What are ultra-processed foods?

Ultra-processed foods are industrial formulations typically made with five or more ingredients, including substances not commonly used in home cooking (such as hydrogenated oils, modified starches, and protein isolates), flavor enhancers, and cosmetic additives. These foods often undergo multiple processing steps and contain little to no whole foods. On our scale, foods with a Processing Level Index of 7-10 are considered ultra-processed.

Why should I care about ultra-processed foods?

Research increasingly links high consumption of ultra-processed foods to various health concerns, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. These foods are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium while being low in essential nutrients and fiber. Understanding which foods are ultra-processed can help you make more informed choices for your health.

Are all processed foods bad for you?

No, not all processed foods are unhealthy. Some processing methods, like freezing vegetables, canning beans, or pasteurizing milk, help preserve nutrients and ensure food safety. These minimally processed foods (PLI 1-3) can be part of a healthy diet. The concern is primarily with ultra-processed foods (PLI 7-10) that contain many additives and little whole food content.

How is the Processing Level Index (PLI) calculated?

The Processing Level Index (PLI) is calculated using a proprietary algorithm that evaluates:

• Ingredient analysis (presence of ultra-processed ingredients vs. whole foods)
• Number and type of additives (preservatives, colors, flavors, emulsifiers)
• Nutrient profile (high sugar, sodium, or unhealthy fats relative to category)
• Total number of ingredients (longer lists often indicate more processing)

Visit our Processing Levels page for detailed information about our methodology.

Where does your food data come from?

Our data comes from the USDA FoodData Central database, which is the most comprehensive source of food composition data in the United States. We supplement this with information from OpenFoodFacts for product images and additional details. We process this data through our proprietary algorithm to calculate Processing Level Index scores and identify product relationships. The database is updated regularly to include new products and formulations.

How accurate is your Processing Level Index?

Our PLI is based on established food science principles and aligns with recognized classification systems like NOVA. However, it has limitations: we cannot determine exact quantities of ingredients, only their presence; product formulations can vary by region; and our understanding of food processing continues to evolve. We recommend using the PLI as one of many tools when making dietary decisions.

How can I find healthier alternatives to ultra-processed foods?

Our Alternative Finder tool allows you to search for any product and discover less processed alternatives. Simply enter a product name, select it from the results, and browse through suggested alternatives with lower processing levels. You can filter alternatives by category and maximum processing level to find options that best suit your needs.

Can I search for products by specific ingredients?

Yes! Use our Search feature to find products by name, brand, or ingredient. You can also browse our Ingredients Database to learn about specific additives and see which products contain them. This is particularly useful if you're trying to avoid certain preservatives, artificial colors, or other additives.

How do I read the nutrition facts on product pages?

Each product page displays comprehensive nutrition information when available. Key things to check include serving size (all values are per serving), calories, sodium (aim for less than 2,300mg daily), added sugars (limit to less than 50g daily), and fiber content. Visit our Nutrition Facts page to learn more about reading and understanding nutrition labels.

How can I report incorrect information?

If you notice any inaccuracies in our database, please contact us with details about the product and the issue. Include the product name, brand, and specific information that needs correction. We review all submissions and update our database accordingly.

How often is the database updated?

We update our database regularly with new products, brands, and ingredients. Major updates occur monthly, with smaller updates and corrections happening more frequently. We also update our processing level calculations as new research and methodologies become available.

Can I suggest new features or improvements?

Absolutely! We welcome feedback and suggestions from our users. Use our contact form to share your ideas for new features, improvements, or any other feedback. Your input helps us make the platform more useful for everyone.

Can I rely solely on the PLI for healthy eating?

The Processing Level Index is one tool among many for making informed food choices. While limiting ultra-processed foods is generally beneficial, other factors like overall calorie intake, nutrient density, portion sizes, and individual dietary needs are also important. We recommend consulting with healthcare professionals for personalized nutritional guidance.

Are there any ultra-processed foods that can be part of a healthy diet?

While it's generally best to limit ultra-processed foods, some may have a place in certain diets. For example, fortified cereals can provide essential vitamins and minerals, and meal replacement shakes might be helpful for specific medical conditions. The key is moderation and being aware of what you're consuming. Focus on making whole, minimally processed foods the foundation of your diet.

How can I reduce ultra-processed foods in my diet?

Here are practical tips for reducing ultra-processed foods:

• Cook more meals at home using whole ingredients
• Read ingredient lists and choose products with fewer, recognizable ingredients
• Replace sugary drinks with water, tea, or homemade smoothies
• Choose whole fruits over fruit juices or fruit-flavored snacks
• Opt for plain yogurt and add your own fruit instead of flavored varieties
• Prepare snacks in advance (cut vegetables, portioned nuts, hard-boiled eggs)