The Green Living Now Podcast

The Truth About Ultra Processed Foods: What Food Companies Don’t Want You to Know


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Green Living Now — home of The Elegant Rebellion

Ultra-processed foods are everywhere… but most people have no idea what’s really hiding in them.


In this episode, registered dietitian and former food-industry insider Julie [Last Name] reveals the truth about ingredients that show up in everyday foods — even the “healthy” ones.

We talk about:

• The surprising difference between “processed” and ultra-processed • Why “natural flavors” may not be what you think • Additives commonly used in the U.S. that are banned in other countries • The biggest red-flag ingredients most people completely overlook • And the one food category Julie says is the fastest way to reduce chemical exposure

But the real shocker?

Julie explains why major companies already sell cleaner versions of the same foods overseas… and why Americans don’t get those versions.We also dig into: • Why kids who “hate vegetables” suddenly eat them on the farm • Why some foods taste chemical once you shift back to real ingredients • How ultra-processed products connect to mood, metabolism, and diabetes • And one simple starting point that can radically change how you feelIf you’ve ever wondered, “What am I actually eating?” — this conversation will change how you see your pantry forever.🧠 Grab the GoCoco App (+ Free Premium Trial)Scan barcodes, analyze your meals, and instantly see which products contain banned dyes and risky additives.

Download GoCoco on iOS or Android and use code LIVING for 1 year of premium free (details in the episode + show notes).

Connect with JulieGoCoco: https://gococo.appEmail: [email protected]

Connect with Amy / Green Living NowWebsite: https://www.greenlivingnow.comPodcast: Green Living NowFree newsletter: https://8c02-amy.systeme.io/2f1bd82c

I’m Amy Todisco Hartshorn—green living mentor, upcoming TEDx speaker, organic farmer and your guide to building a nontoxic life that actually works in the real world. We don’t chase perfection—we wake up and get active making positive change. Expect simple, science-aware steps, smart swaps, and systems that stick. From pantry to garden, products to pets, and healing tools to daily habits, we question what’s “normal,” clear the noise, and choose what enters our homes, kitchens, and bodies—eyes open.Start Here — Free Resources:👉 The Conscious Woman’s Guide: 5 Steps to a Toxin-Free Home & Lifestylehttps://8c02-amy.systeme.io/2ee1189eCourses & Ways to Work Together:Build momentum with step-by-step trainings and practical support:Clean Eating Mastery — decode labels, swap the worst offenders, and build a real-food rhythm that sticks.Create Your Non-Toxic Home — room-by-room upgrades for air, water, materials, cleaning, and safer beauty/body.Organic Gardening Made Simple — soil basics, seasonal planning, and grow-anywhere skills.Grow Organic Food (Almost) Anywhere — containers, small plots, and low-space strategies.Explore current offerings & coaching:https://www.greenlivingnow.com🌎 Website: https://www.greenlivingnow.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amytodisco/🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amytodisco/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amy.d.todiscoAbout Amy:- Upcoming TEDx speaker (topic: elegant, practical paths to living clean)- Technical Editor, Green Living For Dummies (Wiley)- Household toxins educator for 30+ years: speaking, workshops, and on-farm learning in Vermont- Organic farmer & community educator; featured in national media -Frequent podcast guest on wellness, sustainability, and toxin-free livingDisclaimerThe views expressed are personal opinions and not medical advice. This content is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider for decisions about your health. Some links may be affiliate; using them supports the channel at no extra cost.

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The Green Living Now PodcastBy Amy (Todisco) Hartshorn