The Problem with Highly Processed Foods: Health Dangers and How Much People Know.

The new health secretary wants to make America healthy again by reducing ultraprocessed foods. He thinks these foods are bad for people, especially kids, and wants to remove them from government food programs.

Ultraprocessed foods are everywhere, like sugary cereals, frozen pizzas, and chips, and make up a big part of the American diet. These foods have been linked to health problems like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

It's hard to say for sure if these foods are the direct cause of health issues, as most research shows connections, not proof. Food companies argue that processing makes food safer and cheaper, providing easy access to different kinds of food.

Experts classify foods based on how much processing they go through, from simple freezing to adding lots of ingredients you wouldn't use at home. Ultraprocessed foods often have lots of sugar, salt, and fat, making them tasty but potentially unhealthy.

While more research is needed to understand the exact effects of ultraprocessed foods, some experts believe there's enough evidence to take action. They suggest things like higher taxes on sugary drinks, limiting salt in food, and controlling how these foods are advertised to children.