Editorial July 2023
Dear Readers,
According to the Washington Post, about 58 percent of the food Americans eat has been ultra-processed. This didn’t mean much to me until I learned that ultra-processed food is fresh food beaten, pressed, combined, mixed with chemicals and preservatives, and flattened until it is virtually unrecognizable. Ultra-processed food is common: chips, croutons, snack foods. It’s startling to realize that you’re eating something that has little to no nutritional value but still fills you up.
I wonder why companies produce things known to be harmful: my question is, since we’re all on the same page about wanting good food and good health, why are there conflicting interests between business and well-being? Shouldn’t business support everyone’s well-being?
It isn’t a one-sided issue, however. Processing foods allow food to last longer, making it an essential aspect of the food chain. Processed foods are more affordable and more accessible because they are more long-lasting. Still, I was 
stunned to learn that half of American healthcare costs are directed towards treating diet-related diseases. It might be time to stop perpetuating a cycle of harm. But how to begin, and where?
Love,
Editor Jaanu
