Unprocessed or minimally processed foods: Unprocessed foods are parts of plants or animals that have not undergone any industrial processing. Minimally processed foods are unprocessed foods that are modified in ways that do not add or introduce any new substances (such as fats, sugars or salt), but which may involve eliminating certain parts of the food. Include fresh, dried or frozen fruits; vegetables, grains and legumes; nuts; meats, fish and seafood; eggs and milk.
Processed culinary ingredients: substances extracted and purified by industry from food components or obtained from nature (such as fats, oils, salt and sugars).
Processed foods: made by adding fats, oils, sugars, salt and other culinary ingredients to minimally processed foods, to make them more durable and tasty. They include simple breads and cheeses; fish, seafood and salted and cured meats; and fruits, legumes and canned vegetables.
ā Ultraprocessed products: are industrial formulations made from substances derived from food or synthesized from other organic sources. They are inventions of the science and technology of modern industrial foods. They come ready to be consumed or to heat and, therefore, require little or no culinary preparation. Examples: packaged fries; ice cream, chocolates, candies; breads, buns, cookies, cakes and cakes packed; sweetened cereals for breakfast; "energizing" bars; jams and jellies; margarines; soft drinks and "energizing" beverages; sugary drinks based on milk, among others.
