Ultra-Processed Foods: Are They Really Bad for You? Food Fears & Nutrition Misinformation | With Maeve Hanan

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) have become one of the most talked-about topics in nutrition, but how much of what we hear online is actually supported by evidence?In this episode, Talia is joined by Registered Dietitian Maeve Hanan to chat about the growing fear around UPFs and explore what the research really tells us. Together, they discuss how foods are classified, why processing does not determine nutritional value, and the impact that anti-UPF messaging can have on our relationship with food.Episodes drop every Thursday.What You'll Learn:• What ultra-processed foods actually are — and why the definition is more complicated than most people realise• What current research does (and doesn't) tell us about UPFs and health outcomes• Why food processing doesn't determine whether a food is nutritious• How anti-UPF messaging can contribute to food anxiety, disordered eating, and guilt around eating• The role convenience foods can play in supporting health, recovery, and everyday lifeResources & Links:Website: https://dieteticallyspeaking.com/Instagram: @dieteticallyspeakingMaeve's Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/dieteticallyspeaking/sign-up About our Guest:Maeve Hanan is a Registered Dietitian who specialises in eating disorders, disordered eating and food freedom. She’s the founder of Dietetically Speaking, a platform offering evidence-based information, practical tools, courses, and one-to-one support to help people build a healthier, more peaceful relationship with food. Maeve advocates for a compassionate, weight-inclusive approach to nutrition, and is passionate about cutting through the online nutrition BS by sharing clear, evidence-based and practical messages (via her website, weekly newsletter and instagram page).Episode Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & introduction01:02 – What are ultra-processed foods?06:54 – Are UPFs really harmful? Understanding the evidence14:00 – Food fear, eating disorders, and the impact of demonising foods19:17 – Convenience, privilege, and accessibility in nutrition24:03 – Label reading, food rules, and nutrition misinformation online29:33 – When food anxiety becomes a concern30:51 – Final takeaways and practical adviceConnect with Talia:Talia’s Instagram: @tcnutritionFood Is Food Instagram: @foodisfoodpodWebsite & Mailing List: www.taliacechele.com Clinic Enquiries: https://www.taliacecchele.com/contact Support the Podcast:If this episode resonated with you, you can support Food is Food by:Following or subscribing to the podcastLeaving a 5* reviewSharing this episode with someone who might find it helpfulDisclaimer:This podcast is for educational and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for individual medical or dietetic advice.