Unpacking ‘ultra-processed’ foods: what do nurses need to know?

‘Ultra-processed’ foods (UPFs) have received increasing attention over recent years, with concerns around the potential link between high intake and adverse health outcomes. However, there is a lack of clear evidence supporting the link between consumption of UPFs and disease. The current narrative around UPFs may lead to confusion around healthy eating; given that nurses are frequently perceived as trusted healthcare professionals and have a role in supporting healthy eating in clinical and community settings, an understanding around current guidance, diet and consumption of UPFs is needed. This article presents an overview of current evidence and provides nurses with practical approaches for discussing diet and healthy eating with patients, as well as reflecting on their own dietary intake.