What problem are you addressing? Ultra-processed foods and their impact on health is a current topic of debate among the nutrition and food science communities. Additionally, it is one of the topics that the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) Scientific Advisory Committee will be exploring as their process begins in 2023. Yet, there remains no clear definition of “ultra-processing.” What are the most important points the viewers should know? The most commonly used categorization system for levels of food processing- NOVA- labels certain nutrient-dense foods like sweetened yogurt and whole grain breads as “ultra-processed.” In addition, results of a recent study provide evidence that healthy dietary patterns can include most of their energy from ultra-processed foods as defined by NOVA. What is the broader impact of this information? This session will provide food scientists with context for the discussion surrounding ultra-processed foods within the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans process. Speaker: Julie Hess, PhD