In practice, almost all the food we eat is processed to some extent. Processing in itself is not a good or a bad thing; rather, its impact depends on the end result.
- Processing can improve the shelf life and safety of food.
- It may help the body absorb nutrients.
- Adding salt, sugar or fat reduces the nutritional quality of food.
What does ‘ultra-processed food’ mean?
Ultra-processed foods refer to industrially highly processed foods, the manufacture of which involves the use of additives (such as colourings, flavourings and preservatives) and specific production techniques. Highly processed does not automatically mean poor nutritional quality.
This group includes, for example:
- ready-made meals and fast food
- sweets and soft drinks
- meat products, such as cold cuts.
However, according to the international definition, the following are also classified within this group:
- some plant-based protein products and plant-based drinks
- dairy products and spreads fortified with vitamin D.
It is important to note that the classification of ultra-processing is not, as such, applicable to our food culture. For example, wholemeal bread may be classified as ‘ultra-processed’, even though it is of good nutritional quality.
Ultra-processed food and health
According to studies, a high intake of ultra-processed foods is linked to adverse health effects. However, it is not just the degree of processing that is key, but the diet as a whole.
A diet high in ultra-processed foods is often:
- high in energy
- high in sugar and salt
- high in saturated fat
- low in fibre, vitamins and minerals.
That is why, when it comes to the quality of a diet, it is important first and foremost to examine the nutritional content of foods.
Food services guided by nutrition recommendations
In Finland, nutrition recommendations form the basis of health-promoting diets. The aim is a diet with:
- a moderate amount of saturated fat
- a moderate amount of salt and sugar
- a sufficient amount of fibre.
In Helsinki, meals for schools and daycare centres are mainly prepared in our central kitchen using familiar ingredients. We use the same ingredients in our dishes as those used in home kitchens.
Safe, high-quality food for children and young people
Meals offered at schools and daycare centres are designed to support the wellbeing of children and young people:
- Daycare centre meals cover around two-thirds of a child’s daily food requirements.
- School meals provide about one-third of a child’s daily food requirements.
Our food services serve food that is:
- of high-quality in terms of nutrition
- safe
- cost-effective
- efficiently prepared for large numbers of diners.
Every day, we play a part in around 100,000 mealtimes for people in Helsinki.