Colorectal cancer therapy and nutrition: From ultra-processed consumption to metabolic reprogramming

Figure 2 Classification of foods according to the degree of processing (NOVA system). Foods are classified into four groups according to the NOVA system, based on the extent and purpose of industrial processing. Group 1: Unprocessed or minimally processed foods: Obtained directly from plants or animals, such as fruits, vegetables, meats, milk, and eggs, which undergo minimal processing like cleaning, removal of inedible parts, or pasteurization. Group 2: Processed culinary ingredients: Substances extracted from group 1 foods (e.g., oils, butter, sugar, and salt) used to season, cook, or prepare dishes. Group 3: Processed foods: Products manufactured by adding ingredients from group 2 to group 1 foods to enhance flavor or preservation, such as cheeses, breads, and canned vegetables. Group 4: Ultra-processed foods: Industrial formulations made mostly or entirely from substances derived from foods and additives, with little or no intact group 1 ingredients, including soft drinks, snacks, instant noodles, and frozen meals. Recommendation: Prioritize foods from groups 1 and 2, consume those from group 3 in moderation, and avoid those from group 4. Created in BioRender (Supplementary material).