Group 1: unprocessed or minimally processed foods |
Foods taken directly from nature; minimally processed to clean, pasteurize, freeze, or other processes that do not alter the composition |
Coffee, rice, milk, apples, frozen turkey, broccoli (n 60) |
Group 2: processed culinary ingredients |
Ingredients that can be added to group 1 for flavour or seasoning used in the cooking process |
Flour, butter, shortening, sugar (n 7) |
Group 3: processed foods |
Foods from group 1 that are minimally processed, often with salt or oil, with the intent of extending shelf-life or altering palatability; includes fermented alcoholic beverages |
Tortillas, tofu, canned salmon, canned corn, wine (n 12) |
Group 4: ultra-processed foods |
Foods that are highly processed with the intent of convenience and ready-to-eat/drink |
Cookies, ice cream, salad dressing, sausages, cola, potato chips (n 27) |