Ultra-processed foods and dietary habits of oncology patients: Risk factor or survival strategy

Table 1 The NOVA classification as presented

NOVA food classification, Monteiro et al[6], 2019
Categories	Short definition	Examples
Group 1: Unprocessed or minimally processed foods	Natural or slightly changed foods; processes like freezing, drying, or pasteurizing may be used, but no added salt, sugar, oils, or fats; aimed at preservation or ease of use	Fresh or frozen fruits, vegetables, grains (such as rice, oats), legumes, tubers (like potatoes), fresh meat, fish, eggs, milk, plain yogurt, coffee, tea, water, unsweetened juices, and plain flours
Group 2: Processed culinary ingredients	Substances extracted from group 1 foods or nature, used in cooking; often refined or purified	Vegetable oils, butter, lard, sugar, molasses, honey, starches, salt, and combinations like salted butter or iodized salt
Group 3: Processed foods	Group 1 foods with added salt, oil, or sugar; preserved or enhanced for taste and shelf life	Canned vegetables, beans, salted nuts, smoked meats, canned fish, fruits in syrup, simple breads, and cheeses
Group 4: Ultra-processed foods (UPFs)	Industrial products are made from many ingredients, often modified or artificial, designed to be tasty, cheap, long-lasting, and ready-to-eat	Soft drinks, packaged snacks, candy, ice cream, processed bread, cookies, breakfast cereals, flavored yogurts, instant noodles, frozen meals, chicken nuggets, sausages, powdered soups, baby formulas, and meal replacements

UPFs: Ultra-processed foods.