16 Packaged Foods Marketed as “Natural” That Are Actually Processed

Sometimes, labels can be a bit misleading, especially when it comes to packaged foods. You might grab something that says “natural” on the front, but when you check the ingredients, it’s a different story. Turns out, a lot of these so-called “natural” foods are processed more than you’d think. In this article, we’re going to walk through 16 foods that claim to be natural but are actually packed with extra stuff like preservatives, sugars, and other additives. It’s a good reminder to always check those labels before assuming something is as healthy as it looks.

Veggie Chips

Despite being marketed as a healthy snack, veggie chips often contain minimal amounts of actual vegetables. Most brands use powdered forms of vegetables primarily for color, while the rest of the chip is made from starch and oil. They are usually deep-fried, which increases their fat and calorie content. Additionally, veggie chips tend to have high sodium levels, making them less nutritious than their fresh counterparts. Instead of whole vegetables, you’re mostly getting a processed, calorie-dense snack.

Protein Bars

Protein bars are frequently marketed as a health food, but many of them are highly processed. They often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial sweeteners, which make them more akin to candy bars with protein. The protein used is typically of lower quality, and the bars often include preservatives to extend shelf life. While they may seem convenient, they’re far from a whole food option.

Instant Oatmeal

Instant oatmeal packets may appear as a wholesome breakfast choice, but they often contain added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Pre-flavored varieties are especially problematic, with many of them being highly processed and containing added sodium. Opting for plain rolled oats is a better choice, as they are less processed and provide more nutrients without unnecessary additives.

Cereal

Many cereals marketed as natural or healthy, such as those made with oats, are actually heavily processed. They often contain added sugars, preservatives, and artificial colors, which detract from the nutritional benefits. Some cereals are packed with sweeteners like cane sugar and corn syrup, making them an ultra-processed food rather than a truly natural choice.

Gluten-Free Snacks

Gluten-free products may be necessary for those with gluten intolerance, but many of them are highly processed. These snacks often contain refined starches and sugars to mimic the texture of gluten-containing products, resulting in low fiber content and high levels of simple carbohydrates. Despite their “natural” labeling, they can still be unhealthy.

Fruit Juice

Fruit juices are frequently labeled as natural, but they often lack the fiber and other benefits of whole fruits. The juicing process strips away fiber, leaving behind a high concentration of sugars. Drinking fruit juice can cause rapid sugar absorption, which may spike blood sugar levels without offering the satiety that whole fruits provide.

Multigrain Bread

Multigrain bread is often perceived as a healthier choice, but many commercially produced versions are highly processed. They contain refined flours, added sugars, and preservatives to enhance flavor and prolong shelf life. Instead of truly whole grains, these breads often use marketing to create a health halo that doesn’t match their nutritional content.

Frozen Yogurt

Frozen yogurt is another product marketed as a natural and healthy alternative to ice cream. However, many brands add sugars, artificial flavors, and thickeners to their recipes. While it may contain probiotics, these are often outweighed by the high sugar content, making it a processed treat rather than a health food.

Granola

Granola is commonly marketed as a natural and healthy breakfast or snack option. However, most packaged granola products are loaded with added sugars, oils, and preservatives. These ingredients turn what could be a nutritious food into a highly processed, calorie-dense option. Choosing homemade or minimally processed granola is a much better choice.

Bottled Smoothies

Bottled smoothies are often labeled as natural, but many contain added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives to enhance taste and extend shelf life. They also tend to lose fiber content during processing, which means they don’t provide the same health benefits as freshly made smoothies. What may seem like a healthy option is often closer to a sugary drink.

 Trail Mix

Trail mix, often labeled as a natural snack, can be surprisingly processed. Many store-bought versions contain added sugars in the form of candy-coated chocolates or dried fruits with added sweeteners. Additionally, some nuts are roasted in oils that contribute extra calories and unhealthy fats. While the base ingredients like nuts and seeds are healthy, the added sugars and preservatives turn trail mix into a processed snack. Choosing unsweetened, raw varieties is a much better option.

Nut Butters

Nut butters, such as peanut butter or almond butter, are often marketed as natural, but many contain added sugars, hydrogenated oils, and preservatives. These added ingredients turn what should be a simple, wholesome product into something more processed. Even when labeled as natural, some brands use palm oil to stabilize the texture, which detracts from the purity of the product. For a healthier option, look for nut butters that contain just nuts and salt.

Canned Soups

Canned soups, even those marketed as natural or organic, often contain high levels of sodium and preservatives. The processing involved in canning removes much of the fresh taste and nutritional value of the ingredients. While they may be convenient, making soup at home using fresh ingredients is a healthier option and allows you to control the amount of sodium and other additives.

Bottled Salad Dressings

While many bottled salad dressings are labeled as natural, they often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and added sugars. These ingredients are used to extend the shelf life and enhance the flavor, but they turn a simple product into a processed one. Making your own salad dressing at home with olive oil and vinegar is a healthier and more natural option.

Plant-Based Meats

Plant-based meats are often promoted as a healthy alternative to traditional meat, but many of them are heavily processed. These products typically contain a mix of soy protein, oils, and artificial flavorings to mimic the taste and texture of meat. While they may be beneficial for reducing meat consumption, they are still processed foods. Opting for whole plant-based protein sources like lentils, beans, or tofu is a healthier choice.

Coconut Water

Coconut water is often marketed as a natural beverage, but many packaged versions contain added sugars and preservatives. These additives are used to enhance flavor and extend shelf life but make the beverage less healthy than it appears. Choosing pure coconut water without added ingredients or drinking water are better options for staying hydrated without consuming processed sugars.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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