The problem lies in how the term ultra processed is defined in the NOVA system. This system was defined by researchers to classify foods into four categories ranging from 1 (unprocessed) to 4 (ultra-processed). The definition of group 4 foods does sound sort of scary: "Industrial formulations made mostly from food-derived substances and additives, with little if any intact whole food." Examples include soft drinks, packaged snacks, candy, instant noodles, many boxed breakfast cereals, chicken nuggets, hot dogs, frozen meals, most canned soups. Most of the supermarket, in other words!
