Ultra Processed Food Labels are NOT the answer

Hey there, health-conscious warriors!

The BBC wrote an article: (see image) that is supposed to clear up some confusion over Ultra Processed Foods (UPF) but in-fact left me feeling even more confused and compelled to write this follow up blog.

Feel free to read it here but be prepared to feel a little murky afterwards!

So, Let’s delve into the buzzing debate surrounding ultra-processed food labels and why they might not be the silver bullet solution we’re hoping for. And while we’re at it, let’s talk about the current state of traffic light labels and why they’re not exactly winning any awards in the health department.

The current Traffic Light labels

At best, they’re unhelpful; at worst, they’re downright disease-promoting. Often encouraging low fat, chemical laden options over health supporting raw nuts and seeds because they are coloured GREEN! So, here’s the thing: if we’re pinning all our hopes on UPF labels to save us from the pitfalls of processed junk, are we really ready to entrust our health solely to a label? It’s a valid question to ponder. Are we willing to trust our well-being to a tiny piece of paper slapped on a package? And let’s be real, do we honestly believe that the multi-billion-pound food industry will willingly slap warning labels on their products, potentially deterring consumers?

Let play devils advocate here and say they do put them on packaging…. an interesting parallel is cigarettes; Despite the alarming labelling on cigarette packages, consumers continued to purchase them. 🤷🏼‍♀️

The remedy for the undisclosed harm caused by ultra-processed foods (UPFs) isn’t to wait for government mandates on labelling chemically loaded food. Instead, it’s about opting for raw ingredients or minimally processed foods, reserving UPFs for occasional cravings like indulging in ice cream or biscuits, rather than consuming them daily. 👍🏻

Your health is not decided by the ice cream binge you have occasionally, it is decided by the daily choices you make.

I cannot say this strongly enough: your health must not be left in the hands of a label. A label is not the answer to the health crisis we are in and will not change anything. You are the one that changes things. You decide your future health and happiness and I promise you from the very bottom of my heart that it does not involve warning labels.

Oh and by the way…

I do eat ultra processed food, occasionally, when I really fancy it. I don’t feel guilty and a warning label will not stop me!

Reach out if I can be of any help supporting your future decision towards health and happiness.

Drop me a msg….I love to geek out about all this stuff!

Until next time

Michelle x