Real examples from our database that challenge assumptions about "healthy" vs "processed" foods. When Processing and Nutrition Scores don't match our expectations.
Our Two-Score System reveals surprising patterns that challenge conventional wisdom about food. Here are real examples from our database of 1.8+ million products that might surprise you.
These products have minimal processing (PS = 1) but offer limited nutritional value (NS ≤2.5). Being "natural" doesn't automatically mean highly nutritious.
Why this happens: Pure fats (oils, extracts) and simple ingredients often provide mainly calories without significant vitamins, minerals, fiber, or protein, resulting in low nutrition scores despite minimal processing.
These products are highly processed (PS >25) but deliver excellent nutrition (NS >7). Sometimes processing can actually enhance nutritional value.
Why this happens: Fortification adds vitamins and minerals. Trail mixes combine nuts, dried fruits, and other nutrient-dense ingredients. Cereals are often enriched with essential nutrients.
Products from brands with health-focused marketing but surprisingly high processing scores. "Healthy Choice" doesn't always mean minimally processed.
Why this happens: Frozen meals, even "healthy" ones, require extensive processing for shelf-stability, flavor enhancement, and texture preservation. Marketing terms don't change manufacturing requirements.
Surprisingly clean products from brands typically associated with junk food. Even mass-market brands sometimes offer minimally processed options.
Why this happens: Some brands offer product lines spanning from highly processed to minimal processing. The "natural" or "simply" variants often have cleaner ingredient profiles.
"Organic" refers to farming practices, not processing methods. These organic products still undergo significant industrial processing.
Important distinction: "Organic" means the ingredients were grown without synthetic pesticides/fertilizers. It doesn't limit industrial processing techniques, additives, or preservatives.
Non-organic products that achieve excellent scores through minimal processing and naturally nutritious ingredients.
Perfect scores achieved: Simple whole foods like beans and popcorn kernels earn PS=1 (single ingredient) and NS=10 (excellent protein, fiber, and micronutrients) regardless of organic status.
Processing methods and nutritional content are independent factors. A product can be minimally processed but nutritionally empty (like pure sugar), or highly processed but nutrient-dense (like fortified cereals).
Terms like "healthy," "natural," and "organic" are marketing tools that don't necessarily correlate with processing levels or nutritional quality. Our scores cut through the marketing.
Products requiring shelf-stability, extended storage, or specific textures often need industrial processing regardless of the brand's health positioning or organic status.
A high processing score isn't automatically "bad" if the nutrition score is also high. Similarly, a low processing score doesn't guarantee good nutrition. Both scores provide context.
Disclaimer: All tools and data visualizations are provided for educational and informational purposes only. They are not intended as health, medical, or dietary advice. Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary guidance.