This ZOE video features Dr. Andy Chan, a Harvard professor and director at Massachusetts General Hospital, discussing the impact of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on health. The video explores the prevalence of UPFs, their potential links to increased cancer risk (especially in younger people), and strategies for reducing UPF consumption.
Dr. Chan states that a common misconception is that ultra-processed foods are a binary—either ultra-processed or healthy. He argues that there's a gradation, and the term "ultra-processed" itself can be misleading because it doesn't fully capture the nuances of different processing methods and their effects on health. He emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of food processing and its impact, acknowledging the complexities involved.