What is a common characteristic of processed foods?

Processed foods are typically characterized by the inclusion of added ingredients that enhance flavor, extend shelf life, or modify texture. One common aspect of these foods is that they often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives. These additions can significantly alter the nutritional profile of the food, making it less healthy than its whole food counterparts.

Added sugars are frequently included in processed foods to improve taste, while unhealthy fats may be used to enhance texture or flavor. Preservatives are included to prolong shelf life and prevent spoilage. This combination can contribute to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease when consumed excessively.

In contrast, not all processed foods have low calorie counts, and many organic foods go through some processing while maintaining their organic status. Additionally, while some processed foods may lack essential nutrients, many contain some nutritional value, making the blanket statement about having no nutritional value misleading. Hence, the characteristic of often containing added sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives is a defining feature of processed foods.