These Processed Foods Are Actually Good For You

Nuts and seeds

Sure, these come in a bag and are therefore not 'fresh,' but they can be great for you. They are often packed with protein and essential fatty acids. Just opt for the unseasoned ones.

Nut butters

Nut butters are processed, but you can easily find versions where only nuts are used. Avoid those with added sugar, oils, and things such as high-fructose corn syrup.

Dairy milk

Dairy milk is usually pasteurized and therefore subject to a treatment, making it a processed food. But dairy milk is also rich in calcium and protein, and can be included as part of a healthy diet.

Plant-based milk

Plant-based milk comes from a variety of sources, including soy, rice, oat, and almond, as well as other nuts and seeds. These may or may not be fortified with vitamins and minerals, as well as added sugar.

Tofu

Tofu is obtained through a process in which soy milk is coagulated. Then, the curds are pressed into blocks, in a similar fashion to how dairy cheese is made.

Yogurt

Like milk, yogurt is also rich in protein. Some yogurts contain added sugar or flavors, as well as other additives, so look for unsweetened versions if you want to include it as part of a healthy diet.

Frozen fruits and vegetables

These are not, in any way, inferior to fresh produce when it comes to nutritional value. In fact, frozen fruits and vegetables may even be better than some fresh produce, as they are frozen at peak ripeness.

Canned beans

We get it, many of us don’t have the time (or patience) to soak the beans in advance, so we opt for canned, ready-to-eat beans. Well, there is absolutely nothing wrong with that!

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