Ultra-processed foods get talked about a lot, but most of the conversations skip the basics. This episode breaks down what “processed” actually means, how the NOVA classification system works, why it is controversial, and what matters for real life eating. This is not a fear-based take on food. It offers a grounded, practical look at how food processing affects nutrition, health, and decision-making. Includes examples, common misunderstandings, and take-home points that help people make realistic choices.

Explore how front-of-package food labels use marketing language to influence choices. Learn which claims are regulated, which are misleading, and how to identify red flags when reading labels.

Part two of a two-part series that makes sense of the information on your food labels.

Is removing artificial dyes or switching sugars making food healthier—or just better marketed? This episode breaks down the “health halo” effect and why ingredient swaps often miss the bigger picture. It also explores the deeper issue of food insecurity and why access to nutritious food matters more than cosmetic food changes. From misunderstood ingredients to misguided food trends, the focus shifts to what truly impacts public health.