Ultra Processed Food Score Calculator
NOVA food classification is a real, widely-cited framework that mostly lives in academic PDFs. Paste an ingredient list from a label and get a plain-language processing estimate instead. Nothing uploaded.
Results
Estimated Group
NOVA 1 - Unprocessed or minimally processedFlagged Markers
- No markers found yet - enter an ingredient list and click Analyze.
Estimate based on common ultra-processed additive markers, not an official NOVA classification - always a judgment call, not a lab result. Informational only, not medical advice.
Understanding ultra-processed foods and NOVA classification
How the NOVA score is estimated
The NOVA framework groups foods by industrial processing level. This calculator scans ingredient lists for common ultra-processed markers across six categories: emulsifiers (soy lecithin, carrageenan), artificial colors and flavors, synthetic sweeteners, chemical preservatives, industrial ingredients (protein isolates, modified starches), and flavor enhancers (MSG, yeast extract). When three or more markers are found, the food is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed). One or two markers suggest NOVA 3/4 (borderline). If no markers appear but there are more than 5 ingredients, it likely falls into NOVA 2 (processed culinary ingredient). Fewer than 6 ingredients and no markers suggests NOVA 1 (minimally processed).
Important limitations and when to use caution
This calculator is not a medical diagnostic tool and should not be used for clinical decisions. It estimates processing level only - it cannot determine nutritional value, caloric density, or whether a food is healthful for your individual needs. Some natural foods like yogurt or cheese may have emulsifiers listed but are not ultra-processed. Conversely, a minimally-processed food may lack markers but could be high in sugar or sodium. The presence of markers indicates industrial additives, but presence alone does not guarantee harm. Always defer to a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized food and nutrition guidance.
FAQ
What is NOVA classification?
NOVA is a real framework developed by researchers at the University of São Paulo that groups foods by degree of processing: Group 1 (unprocessed), Group 2 (processed culinary ingredients), Group 3 (processed foods), and Group 4 (ultra-processed foods). This calculator uses a simplified version that flags common additive markers to estimate which group a food falls into.
Is emulsifier use always a sign of ultra-processing?
Not necessarily. Emulsifiers like soy lecithin are common in both processed and minimally-processed foods (peanut butter, dark chocolate). The marker system flags them as a statistical indicator of industrial processing, but the presence of one emulsifier alone does not make a food ultra-processed. Context matters - bread with lecithin is different from a heavily-formulated snack cake.
Can I use this to diagnose a health condition?
No. This tool estimates processing level based on ingredient markers only. It does not assess nutritional quality, allergens, caloric content, or fitness for any specific diet or health goal. For dietary decisions related to health, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare provider.