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How does processed food fit into a healthy diet? A healthy diet means eating a variety of nutritious foods from different food groups, including fresh fruits and vegetables, grains and cereals (opting for wholegrains when possible), proteins, dairy and healthy fats. Most foods consumed nowadays are processed at least to some degree, but not all processed foods are the same. For example, fruit canned in fruit juice will be a better option than fruit canned in a sugary syrup. Therefore, when chosen mindfully, processed foods can be incorporated into a healthy and balanced diet. Less processed foods such as frozen fruits and vegetables provide valuable sources of nutrition, with greater convenience and lower price. Chopped, frozen, and canned foods in natural juices (fruit) or water (veg or fish), are therefore good alternatives for busy people having limited time to shop for or cook from a fresh produce. Some processed foods that contain less fibre, and higher levels of (saturated) fat, added sugar and salt, are best consumed occasionally. For example, canned savoury foods and cured meats are often high in salt. In fact, the World Cancer Research Fund advises to eat very little, if any, processed meat (such as ham, salami, bacon and some sausages, including frankfurters and chorizo). For more information, read our science brief. Similarly, it helps to be mindful of foods like biscuits, chocolate bars, burgers, pizzas and alike, and make them an occasional addition to, rather than a basis of our diet