Food Manufacturing for Nutrition and Health

These flashcards cover the key concepts from the theme of food manufacturing for nutrition and health, highlighting processed foods, health concerns, industry influences, and environmental impacts.

What are the main types of processed foods according to the NOVA classification?

Unprocessed or minimally processed foods, processed culinary ingredients, processed foods, and ultra-processed foods.

What health concerns are linked to consuming large amounts of ultra-processed foods?

Obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related diseases.

Describe how food processing can affect nutritional quality.

Food processing can enhance nutrition through methods like fermentation, or reduce it by removing essential nutrients and adding unhealthy ingredients.

What is a defining feature of ultra-processed foods?

Ultra-processed foods are industrial formulations made mostly from substances derived from foods and additives, with little to no whole food content.

What role do large food companies like Nestlé and Coca-Cola play in the food system?

They influence food production, marketing, and consumption, and can shape health policies and practices.

What methods do food companies use to promote their products?

Advertising through various media and using health claims on labels to create a 'health halo' effect.

What are some government policies aimed at improving the healthiness of processed foods?

Sugar taxes, front-of-pack labels, and marketing rules for children.

How can ultra-processed foods impact the environment?

They require significant energy and water use, result in waste from packaging, and contribute to environmental problems like deforestation and pollution.

What technology is often used in food processing to improve product quality?

Freezing, heating, pasteurization, high-pressure processing, and the use of additives like flavourings and preservatives.

What is one key difference between traditional food fortification and marketing claims on processed foods?

Mandatory fortification is regulated by governments to prevent deficiencies, while marketing claims might just boost sales without ensuring real health benefits.