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The Purpose of Food Processing and Ultra-Processed Food: the Potential, Pitfalls and Path Forward for Public Health

Samuel J Dicken

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13668-026-00775-z?

Purpose of the Review: “The Nova classification considers the purpose and degree of food processing to capture how recent changes in the food system may link with health. Its value for understanding diet-disease relationships is debated. However, reviews typically focus only on its value, or its limitations. Furthermore, by discussing the degree of processing only and not the purpose, or discussing processing in general, reviews of limitations do not address pitfalls of the Nova classification. This conflict and confusion stalls progress to improve public health. Therefore, this review aims to provide a balanced understanding, interpretation and utilisation of the Nova classification and purpose of food processing, with a critical evaluation of its potential value, of pitfalls largely overlooked to date with recommendations to avoid unintended consequences, and constructive reflections on a path forward.”

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