Clean Ingredient Champions

Clean ingredient products are minimally processed with short, recognizable ingredient lists. Think: 'organic carrots' instead of 'carrot-flavored vegetable puffs with 30 additives.' NOVA 1 (unprocessed/minimally processed) foods dominate this hub—vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains. These are foundational foods, the stuff your body actually recognizes as food. No artificial colors, preservatives, or unpronounceable chemicals. Brands like 365 (Whole Foods), Trader Joe's, and Earthbound Farm excel here with organic produce, frozen vegetables with zero additives, and pantry staples like lentils, oats, and seeds. Pro tip: frozen vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh (sometimes more—they're frozen at peak ripeness). They're also cheaper, don't spoil, and save time. Chia seeds, flax, and pumpkin seeds are nutrient-dense powerhouses—high fiber, omega-3s, protein. Add them to smoothies, oatmeal, or salads. Clean eating doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. Buy frozen organic produce in bulk, stock up on dried lentils and oats, and you're 80% there.

Key Benefits

• Minimal processing—foods closest to their natural state with maximum nutrients
• No artificial additives, preservatives, or synthetic ingredients
• High in fiber, vitamins, and minerals from whole plant foods
• Better for gut health—real food feeds beneficial bacteria
• Lower risk of chronic diseases—whole foods reduce inflammation