05/10/2025
The “Killer Bar” Debate: What You Really Need to Know About Ultra-Processed Foods
You’ve probably seen headlines calling some ultra-processed foods “killers” — but is it that simple?
The truth: ultra-processed foods aren’t all bad. Some, like tinned beans, houmous, or fortified cereals, can be nutritious and practical, especially when budgets or time are tight. The problem lies with highly sugary, salty, or fatty options — the ones that make it easy to overeat without feeling full.
Scare tactics, moralising, or demonising all UPFs can backfire, causing guilt and even disordered eating. Instead, evidence shows a balanced, practical approach works best:
✅ Base meals on whole foods
✅ Keep useful processed foods for convenience
✅ Reduce the least nutritious UPFs gradually
✅ Forget food guilt — focus on progress, not perfection
Learn why demonising the Killer Bar isn’t helpful and how to make sustainable, realistic choices in your everyday life.
📖 Read the full blog here:
https://www.julietgreenhalghnutrition.com/post/the-killer-bar-debate-what-we-really-need-to-know-about-ultra-processed-foods