What defines unprocessed (or whole) foods?

Unprocessed, or whole, foods are characterized primarily by their lack of additives and minimal packaging. These foods are typically in their most natural state, meaning they have not undergone significant processing, which often includes the addition of preservatives, flavor enhancers, or artificial ingredients. Whole foods are typically fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes that maintain their original nutritional profile and are free from the chemicals and ingredients which can often compromise their health benefits.

Minimally packaged also supports the idea of whole foods being accessible and closer to nature. The focus is on eating foods that are as close to their natural state as possible, providing the body with essential nutrients without unwanted additives. This approach promotes health and well-being, making whole foods a cornerstone of holistic nutrition.

In contrast, other choices refer to aspects that do not inherently define unprocessed foods. For example, high additive content directly contradicts the concept of whole foods, while ease of digestion can vary significantly among individuals and does not define the processing level of the food. Lastly, freezing food for preservation does not negate the possibility of it being unprocessed; however, this method of preservation can be applied to both processed and unprocessed foods. Thus, the defining feature of unprocessed foods