Survey Reveals Americans’ Misunderstanding of Healthy and Unhealthy Processed Foods

A recent online survey conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine uncovered a significant gap in Americans' ability to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy processed foods. According to the study published on July 8, 2025, in JAMA Network Open, 39% of respondents mistakenly believed all processed foods are unhealthy, highlighting widespread misconceptions about nutrition. When asked which foods contribute to increased risk of type 2 diabetes, many participants responded inaccurately, with 51% citing sugar, 19% desserts, and 7% carbohydrates broadly, despite evidence to the contrary.

The survey involved 2,174 U.S. adults who answered questions between December 13 and 15, 2024. Leading experts indicate that the health effects of processed foods can vary dramatically depending on their type. Neal Barnard, MD, the study's lead author, explained that some ultra-processed foods, especially plant-based options like breakfast cereals, may actually reduce disease risk, whereas processed meats are associated with increased diabetes and cardiovascular risks.

This revelation aligns with current discussions on policy changes, including a new American Medical Association initiative aiming to improve public understanding of ultra-processed foods. The FDA is also preparing to define ultra-processed foods more clearly, which could influence future Dietary Guidelines for Americans. While the Brazilian-origin NOVA system is commonly used internationally to categorize such foods, the FDA has yet to establish its own official criteria.

Research from Harvard University further supports these findings, showing that processed meat intake correlates with a 44% increased diabetes risk, while ultra-processed cereals can contribute to a 22% reduction in diabetes risk. Additionally, a recent BMC study linked moderate consumption of breakfast cereals and muesli to lower mortality from cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Despite the evidence, many Americans remain confused, especially younger adults, about which foods are beneficial. Experts argue for more precise terminology to describe processed foods, emphasizing their individual health impacts. For example, canned vegetables and fruits, often processed, are healthful, whereas highly refined processed snacks are not.

Understanding the true health implications of processed foods is essential, as dietary patterns in the U.S. continue to evolve, impacting public health. Clearer definitions and better education could help consumers make more informed choices to prevent lifestyle diseases like diabetes and heart disease.