Episode transcript

[Music]

I’m Susie Craig from Washington State University Extension.

Food processors are getting lots of negative attention for manufacturing ultra-processed foods. Why do Americans choose ultra-processed foods so frequently? Even better, think about why you choose ultra-processed foods at your grocery store or restaurant. Consider these factors:

• Convenience. They’re quick and easy to prepare compared to cooking from scratch.

• Affordability. They’re often less expensive than fresh, whole foods.

• Long product shelf life. Preservatives in bread, dairy products, and meat extend shelf life and reduce food waste.

• Lacking the time to prepare meals from scratch.

• Having limited cooking skills. And

• Your personal food choices based on a lifetime of habits.

Thanks for listening to Food Safety in a Minute.

[Music]

Resources:

Ducharme, Jamie. Time Magazine (8/28/24). Why One Dietitian is Speaking Up for ‘Ultra-Processed Foods. https://time.com/7007857/ultra-processed-foods-advocate/. Accessed online 2/12/25.

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Ultra-processed Foods Account for More than Half of Calories Consumed at Home (12/10/24). https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2024/ultraprocessed-foods-account-for-more-than-half-of-calories-consumed-at-home. Accessed online 2/12/25.