It is time to think about color. Spring was a time for renewal and awakening. Flowers began to bloom, and gardens were planted. Summer is all about an abundance of color seen in the landscape, in gardens, in our homes and at farmers markets. There is no better time to enjoy fresh fruit and vegetables than during the summer months. It is the perfect season to incorporate the freshest produce into meal planning while minimizing ultra-processed foods. 

Processed foods have been a topic of discussion and a concern for several years. In the last few years, there has been more awareness and possible confusion about what defines processed foods and how they are different from ultra-processed foods. The global food system has undergone a profound transformation when discussing technology and food processing by taking a big shift favoring highly processed foods for consumer appeal, competition and convenience.Â