Listening

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Helpful Words and Phrases

Listen and repeat.

  1. ultra-processed
    • ex. Ultra-processed foods, like fast food and sodas, are not very healthy.
  2. sugary
    • ex. Dentists say that sugary drinks are bad for your teeth.
  3. an additive
    • ex. Many people prefer to eat natural foods without any additives.
  4. a preservative
    • ex. Most canned foods contain preservatives to stay fresh longer.
  5. call for (something)
    • ex. The rise in health problems in the community calls for a better public health plan.

Article

Read the article below and answer your tutor's questions.

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Most Americans eat ultra-processed foods every day. These include sugary cereals, frozen pizzas, potato chips, sodas, and ice cream. These foods contain things like additives, food coloring, and preservatives. Ultra-processed foods make up about 60% of what Americans eat. For children and teenagers, it’s even more, about 67% of their food.

Research suggests that diets high in ultra-processed foods are linked to health problems like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and even early death. This is because ultra-processed foods often have more salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats while being low in fiber and protein. However, researchers have no clear evidence that these foods directly cause health issues.

Food manufacturers argue that processed foods are safe, and they are cheaper and more convenient than other foods. However, experts like Dr. Neena Prasad call for stricter rules, including higher taxes on sugary drinks and limits on selling ultra-processed food to children. FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said the issue of ultra-processed foods is complex. According to Califf, we need strong scientific evidence before making changes.

Discussion

Choose a topic and discuss the questions with your tutor.

Ultra-processed Foods

  • What is your opinion about ultra-processed food (ex. it’s safe to eat, it’s bad for one’s health)? Discuss.
  • Describe your daily diet. Discuss.
  • In your opinion, why are ultra-processed foods so common in the diet of people today, especially in the U.S.? Discuss.

Effects of Ultra-processed Foods on a Person’s Health

  • About 67% of what American children and teenagers eat are made of ultra-processed foods. Do you think this information is alarming? Why or why not? Discuss.
  • Research suggests that diets high in ultra-processed foods are linked to health problems, but there’s no clear evidence that they cause health issues. In your opinion, how often should you eat processed foods (ex. once a week, not at all)? Discuss.
  • Food manufacturers argue that processed foods are safe. Do you believe their statement? Why or why not? Discuss.