MasterChef judge Anna Haugh says she never buys margarine.

Chef and MasterChef judge Anna Haugh says she avoids ultra-processed foods and does not buy margarine, calling it highly processed; she checks ingredient lists and highlights that texture can affect how much people eat.

Chef and MasterChef judge Anna Haugh says she avoids ultra-processed foods whenever possible and specifically does not buy margarine. She describes margarine as one of the most ultra-processed items and notes it often contains emulsifiers and artificial colours. The article explains that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are made on an industrial scale with ingredients not commonly found in a home kitchen and that diets high in UPFs have been associated with greater risks of conditions such as heart disease and certain cancers. Haugh also says she shifted from counting calories to focusing on cooking what she calls real food when trying to lose weight. Key points: - Haugh says she never buys margarine and views it as a highly ultra-processed product. - Margarine is noted as sometimes being promoted as a lower-saturated-fat butter alternative but is described as containing added emulsifiers and artificial colours. - UPFs are defined as foods with additives, flavour enhancers, colourings and preservatives, and the article reports links between high-UPF diets and higher risk for some health conditions. - Haugh says she checks ingredient lists and looks for items that sound like real food, and she highlights texture as influencing how much people eat. - She acknowledges that not everyone has the time, money or resources to cook from scratch and does not judge those who rely on convenience foods. Summary: Haugh's remarks draw attention to food processing, ingredients and texture as factors people may notice when choosing foods. The article reports associations between diets high in UPFs and some health risks and describes Haugh's personal approach to shopping and cooking. Undetermined at this time.