The 4 NOVA Groups Explained (With Examples)

The NOVA system classifies all foods into four groups based on the extent and purpose of processing they undergo. It was developed by researchers at the University of São Paulo and is now used by the WHO, UNICEF, and food agencies worldwide. Here's what each group means.

1

Group 1: Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods

Foods that have been altered only by removal of inedible parts, drying, crushing, grinding, roasting, boiling, pasteurisation, refrigeration, freezing, or fermentation. No added substances — just the food itself.

Characteristics

  • No added salt, sugar, oils, or fats
  • No industrial additives of any kind
  • May be dried, frozen, or pasteurised
  • Single ingredient or simple combinations

Examples

  • Fresh fruit and vegetables
  • Dried beans and lentils
  • Plain rice, pasta, and flour
  • Fresh meat, fish, and eggs
  • Plain milk and natural yoghurt
  • Nuts and seeds (unsalted)
  • Herbs, spices, and tea
2

Group 2: Processed Culinary Ingredients

Substances obtained directly from Group 1 foods through pressing, refining, grinding, or milling. Rarely consumed alone — they're used in preparing and cooking Group 1 foods.

Characteristics

  • Derived from Group 1 foods through simple processes
  • Used as ingredients, not eaten alone
  • No added industrial additives
  • May contain anti-caking agents or preservatives

Examples

  • Olive oil and vegetable oils
  • Butter and lard
  • Sugar and honey
  • Salt
  • Flour and cornstarch
  • Vinegar
3

Group 3: Processed Foods

Foods made by adding salt, oil, sugar, or other Group 2 substances to Group 1 foods. Generally 2–3 ingredients. The processing aims to preserve food or make it more enjoyable — not to create a new industrial product.

Characteristics

  • Made from recognisable whole foods
  • Usually 2–3 ingredients
  • Added salt, sugar, or oil for preservation or taste
  • No industrial additives like emulsifiers or flavourings

Examples

  • Canned vegetables (in brine or oil)
  • Tinned fish (in oil or water)
  • Cheese (traditional, from milk + salt + rennet)
  • Freshly baked bread (flour, water, salt, yeast)
  • Smoked meat and cured ham
  • Salted or sugared nuts
4

Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods

Industrial formulations made mostly or entirely from substances derived from foods and additives. They typically contain five or more ingredients, including industrial additives you'd never find in a home kitchen — emulsifiers, flavourings, colours, humectants, and modified starches.

Characteristics

  • 5+ ingredients, many unrecognisable
  • Contains industrial additives (emulsifiers, flavourings, etc.)
  • Designed for convenience, hyper-palatability, and long shelf life
  • Often high in sugar, fat, and salt
  • Base ingredients are heavily modified (protein isolates, hydrogenated oils)

Examples

  • Mass-produced sliced bread
  • Breakfast cereals and cereal bars
  • Instant noodles and packet soups
  • Fizzy drinks and energy drinks
  • Crisps and savoury snacks
  • Ready meals and frozen pizzas
  • Chicken nuggets and fish fingers
  • Ice cream (commercial)
  • Biscuits, cakes, and confectionery

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Frequently asked questions

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More NOVA classification guides

NOVA Classification Examples: Processed vs Ultra-Processed FoodsHow to Identify Ultra-Processed Foods (UPF) on LabelsNOVA Food Classification List: Common Foods by GroupNOVA Classification Hub