Are Processed Foods Really Bad for You?

Processed foods often get blamed for today’s health challenges—but is processing itself really the issue? In this episode of Rooted & Restless, Marianne Smith Edge, MS, RDN sits down with Dr. Taylor Wallace, food scientist and nutrition researcher to unpack the science, history, and misconceptions surrounding processed and “ultra-processed” foods.

What We Cover:

• Why processed foods exist and their evolution of being a “homemaker’s convenience” to a link to major health concerns.

• What “ultra-processed” really means—and why it’s often misunderstood

• What the real dietary factors in food -added sugars, saturated fats, refined carbs and sodium-impact long-term health.

• Why processed foods exist and their contribution to year-round food access and contribution to a safe and stable global food supply.

Taylor also shares insights from his current research on choline, including daily egg consumption and its benefits for child development and cognitive function, especially in females.

You can find Taylor on:

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