ultra-processed

American  

[uhl-truh-pros-est] / ˈʌl trəˈprɒs ɛst /

Also highly processed

adjective

1. being, consisting of, or relating to a food product whose form and substance have gone through multiple processes of modification along with the addition of such ingredients as sugars, salt, fats, and artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.

   My intake of ultra-processed foods is down to an occasional hotdog at the ballpark and one weekly order of chicken nuggets.

   The study found that participants eating an ultra-processed diet ate faster.

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Etymology

Origin of ultra-processed

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

She began to cut out ultra-processed foods, instead opting for fresh fruit and vegetables, whole wheat pastas and oats.

From BBC

People in the UK eat a lot of convenience and ultra-processed foods, which don't typically contain much fibre, says Hilton.

From BBC

He also recommends avoiding refined white sugars and ultra-processed foods where possible, which can damage the diversity of bacteria in our gut.

From BBC

The sharpest declines appeared in ultra-processed, high-calorie foods that are often linked to cravings.

From Science Daily

New federal dietary guidelines warn against ultra-processed foods, encourage more protein and saturated fat, and advise cutting back on carbohydrates.

From Barron's