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 Score above 8.0 are considered ultra-processed (Level 4).

Why should I care about ultra-processed foods?

Studies have observed correlations between high consumption of ultra-processed foods and various health concerns. 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 dietary choices. We recommend consulting healthcare professionals for personalized nutritional guidance.

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. Our 4-level system classifies foods as: Level 1 (Minimally Processed, PS ≤2.5), Level 2 (Processed, PS 2.6-5.0), Level 3 (Highly Processed, PS 5.1-8.0), and Level 4 (Ultra-Processed, PS >8.0). The primary concerns are with Level 4 foods that contain many additives and little whole food content.

How do you calculate Processing and Nutrition Scores?

We use a two-score system that evaluates both processing and nutrition:

• Processing Score (1-32+, lower is better): Based on ingredient count, additives, artificial ingredients, and processing techniques
• Nutrition Score (0-10, higher is better): Balances positive factors (protein, fiber) against negative ones (added sugars, sodium)

Visit our Two-Score System guide 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 Scores and Nutrition Scores for 1.98 million products. The database is updated regularly to include new products and formulations.

How accurate are your Processing and Nutrition Scores?

Our two-score system 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 our scores as one of many tools when making dietary decisions.

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

Use our search functionality to find products and discover less processed alternatives. You can filter by processing score ranges and nutrition score thresholds to find options that best suit your dietary goals within specific categories.

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 your scores for healthy eating?

Our two-score system 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)