The Claim
In Spain, 86% of plant-based foods are classified as Nutri-Score A or B, indicating high nutritional quality, while 50–60% are categorized as ultra-processed (NOVA group 4), demonstrating a discrepancy between nutrient-based scoring and processing level classification.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
In Spain, most plant-based foods are labeled as nutritionally healthy based on their nutrient content, but more than half are classified as ultra-processed, showing that nutrient scores do not reflect how processed the food is.
See the scientific wording
Plant-based foods in Spain are frequently classified as Nutri-Score A or B (86%) indicating good nutritional quality, but over half (50–60%) are categorized as ultra-processed (NOVA group 4), revealing a disconnect between nutrient content and processing level.
Food manufacturers add vitamins, minerals, and plant proteins to highly processed plant ingredients to make them look nutritionally healthy, even though the processing removes natural fiber and adds sugars, salts, and artificial additives. This tricks scoring systems into giving them high ratings, even though the food is still heavily altered.
What the research says
1 studyMany plant-based foods in Spain get a 'healthy' label because they have good nutrients, but most are still heavily processed with added ingredients — so they’re not as healthy as they seem.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.