A new study shows that people are afraid of UPF, but they don’t understand what it is.
A nutritionist has defended ultra-processed foods as being ‘inherently not harmful’ after Joe Wicks’ new documentary revealed how ‘healthy’ foods can be packaged with factory-made ingredients. Recipe Box Research from Gousto found that seven in 10 Brits are worried about how UPF could affect their long-term health.
But more than half admitted they had no idea when they would actually buy one, and 60% said they were ’embarrassed’ by the term. A third say they want to cut costs but don’t know where to start.
“Ultra-processed foods aren’t inherently harmful and they aren’t all created equal, but when they become the foundation of our diet, there’s less room for us to eat the fresh, nutrient-dense foods that help us stay healthy in the long term,” said nutritionist Sarah Fancourt.
“The key is balance. A diet centered around all the ingredients is the best way to support health, energy and well-being.”
Sarah suggests small, achievable exchanges that still fit into our busy lives.
- Start your day strong. Instead of sweet cereals or fried breakfasts, try a banana, seeded oat porridge, or whole grain toast with nut butter.
- Snack smart: Instead of biscuits or chips, swap out chopped vegetable sticks with hummus, a piece of fruit, or a handful of unsalted nuts.
- Reconsider your drinks. Instead of soda, try sparkling water with lemon or unsweetened kombucha.
- Reimagine convenience: Instead of takeaway, opt for quick home-cooked recipes in a Gousto box. Fresh, nutritious ingredients help get dinner on the table quickly.
- Upgrade your sauce: Make your own pasta sauce with passata, garlic, and herbs. This way you can control what goes into it without the added additives and sugars that are often found in bottles.
- Upgrade the side: Swap frozen chips (often coated with maltodextrin and flavorings) for homemade wedges or baked potatoes.
- Rethink dessert. Instead of ice cream, try natural yogurt with fruit or honey.
Sarah said: “Cooking from scratch is one of the most effective ways to reduce UPF,” adds Sarah. “It doesn’t have to be time consuming or expensive.”
