In a startling revelation, it has been found that over 60% of foods in American supermarkets fall under the category of ultra-processed, posing a significant public health problem. As the United States Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services prepare to release the new edition of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans in 2025, there is growing concern that the guidelines will need to address the consumption of processed foods.

The evolution of the Dietary Guidelines has seen a shift in focus from nutrient-based recommendations to more holistic dietary patterns. The original food pyramid, introduced in 1992, emphasized the consumption of whole grain-heavy foods, while subsequent versions like MyPyramid and MyPlate aimed to provide more individualized nutrition plans. However, critics argued that these renditions were complex and lacked clear guidance on proportionality of food groups.

Processed foods, which are altered through the addition of salt, oil, sugar, or other substances, have increasingly come under fire due to their negative health impacts. These foods, including widely recognized junk foods like packaged cakes and potato chips, as well as seemingly healthy options like granola and vegetable straws, make up a significant portion of the products available in supermarkets.

A survey conducted by the International Food Information Council revealed that a staggering 76% of Americans are unfamiliar with the term "ultra-processed" and are unable to identify such products. This knowledge gap is concerning given the emerging research linking ultra-processed foods to a range of health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and anxiety.

Recognizing the need to address this issue, the upcoming Dietary Guidelines may include specific recommendations on the consumption of processed foods. The 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee is currently examining the evidence on health and nutrition through data analysis, food pattern modeling, and systematic reviews. One of the key questions being explored is the relationship between dietary patterns containing varying levels of processed foods and their impact on growth, body composition, and obesity risk.

While nutrition experts argue for the reduction of calories from ultra-processed foods, the food industry has begun a lobbying campaign to caution against any recommendations on these products. They argue that industrial processing ensures the safety, convenience, and affordability of food, and challenge the lack of a universally accepted scientific definition for ultra-processed foods.

Despite the industry's resistance, many experts agree that there is sufficient evidence to warrant recommendations for reducing the consumption of processed foods. Marion Nestle, an emeritus professor of nutrition, food studies, and public health at NYU, suggests that while complete avoidance of these foods may not be realistic, it is crucial to limit their intake.

As the 2025 Dietary Guidelines approach publication, the focus on processed foods and their impact on public health has become an urgent concern. With a better understanding of the harm caused by ultra-processed foods, it is essential that Americans are educated about these hidden health risks and empowered to make informed dietary choices for the sake of their well-being.