Research from 2021 developed a scoring system of food based on 54 attributes covering these nine domains: nutrient ratios, vitamins, minerals, food ingredients, additives, processing, specific lipids, fiber and protein, and phytochemicals. Based on the mean values of this scoring system, the healthiest food categories are:
legumes
vegetables
fruit
fish and seafood
sauce condiment
dairy
mixed dishes
beverages
grains
meat, poultry, eggs
fats and oils
sory snacks and sweet desserts
Of course, whether a particular food is healthier than another ultimately depends on the exact food and any specific ingredients it may contain. It’s a good idea to consult a dietitian to determine exactly what foods are best for you.