Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have become an everyday part of many people’s diets. From ready meals to breakfast cereals, these foods are engineered for convenience and taste – but at what cost? With growing attention on how ultra-processed foods (UPFs) influence our health, the environment, and even the way we view eating, it’s no wonder there’s so much confusion and curiosity surrounding them.
In our new video podcast on the Guardian’s It’s Complicated YouTube channel, we want to explore what really goes into UPFs and what that means for our wellbeing. What makes a food ‘ultra-processed’ compared to regular processed foods? Are all UPFs inherently unhealthy? How did they become such a dominant part of the food landscape, and what would it mean to cut them out? These are just some of the questions we’re looking to answer — but we really want to hear from you.
We’re inviting you to share your questions, insights, or what you’ve always wondered about ultra-processed foods. Have you ever felt conflicted about your reliance on them or struggled to make sense of the debates? Are there specific products or ingredients that leave you puzzled?
Your responses will help guide our research and may be answered by guest experts in our video podcast. Join the conversation by filling out the form below — your thoughts are invaluable as we navigate this complex topic together.