Ultra-Processed Foods: Evolving Definitions

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Ultra-processed foods are frequently discussed as a category to avoid, yet definitions and applications continue to evolve. The NOVA classification system has driven much of the conversation, but research increasingly emphasizes context, frequency, and overall dietary patterns rather than strict exclusion. Many ultra-processed foods contribute convenience, affordability, and accessibility, complicating simple narratives. For fitness professionals, this trend reinforces the value of avoiding rigid food labeling and instead focusing on how food choices fit into broader patterns, preferences, and practical realities.