health food

American  

noun

1. any natural food popularly believed to promote or sustain good health, as by containing vital nutrients, being grown without the use of pesticides, or having a low sodium or fat content.

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health food British  

noun

1. 1. vegetarian food organically grown and with no additives, eaten for its dietary value and benefit to health

   2. ( as modifier )

      a health-food shop

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Etymology

Origin of health food

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The museum announced Tuesday that it has partnered with Erewhon, the high-end L.A. health food chain and retailer, on a cafe located on the ground level of its new David Geffen galleries.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

Their activism faced a commercial test as the brand moved from health food aisles into the mainstream.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Beth Krietsch is a writer specializing in health, food, and wellness.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026

On Tuesday, health food brand Grape Tree issued recall notices for two of its products due to possible contamination with undeclared peanuts and milk.

From BBC • Dec. 9, 2025

So now Molly does—she swallowed her pride, asked Ralph for money, and bought almond butter, organic honey, and nutty bread in the health food store in Bar Harbor.

From "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline