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NOVA scale

The NOVA scale: how processed is your food?

NOVA is a system that classifies food by how processed it is, not just its nutrition. Skaren shows you the NOVA level of the products you scan.

What is the NOVA scale?

NOVA divides food into four groups by degree of processing. Group 1 is unprocessed or minimally processed food like fruit, vegetables and eggs. Group 2 is processed ingredients like oil and butter. Group 3 is processed food like cheese and canned goods. Group 4 is ultra-processed food with many additives and industrial ingredients.

The point isn't that all processing is bad, but that a lot of ultra-processed food in the diet can be worth being aware of.

See the NOVA level with Skaren

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Scan the barcode. Understand what you eat. Available on iOS.

Frequently asked questions

Is ultra-processed food dangerous?+

Not necessarily in small amounts, but many people want to cut back. Skaren makes it easy to see the processing level.

What is NOVA group 4?+

Ultra-processed food with industrial ingredients and additives, like soft drinks, snacks and much ready-made food.

Does Skaren show NOVA for free?+

NOVA processing level is part of Skaren Pro. Scanning and the health grade are free.