The pervasive habit of labeling foods as “good” or “bad” is increasingly recognized by mental health professionals as detrimental to psychological well-being, potentially contributing to shame, guilt, and even eating disorders. Experts say assigning moral value to food choices is a reductive practice that undermines a healthy relationship with eating.
Jillian Lampert, PhD, RD, vice president of strategy and public affairs for Accanto Health and executive director for The Emily Program Foundation, explains that the cultural tendency to categorize foods in this way is problematic. “Somehow, we decided that some foods are good and some are bad, and that if we eat them, then our behaviors—and even we as people—are good or bad,” she said.
This moralization of food extends to marketing, where products marketed as lower in calories or fat are often labeled “guilt-free,” further reinforcing the idea that certain foods are permissible while others are not. Experts caution against this type of labeling, emphasizing that healthy eating is a nuanced concept that varies from person to person.
“Healthy eating depends on your own unique needs,” Lampert says. The focus should be on balance and individual requirements, rather than adhering to rigid rules about what constitutes “good” or “bad” food.
The consequences of viewing food through a moral lens can be significant. Registered Dietitian Christine Byrne notes that this practice often leads to feelings of shame and guilt when individuals consume foods they’ve deemed “unhealthy.” This can negatively impact mental health and potentially contribute to disordered eating patterns.
One manifestation of an excessive focus on “healthy” eating is orthorexia, a term coined in 1998 to describe an obsession with “pure” or “clean” eating. While not yet formally classified as a clinical eating disorder, orthorexia is on the rise, according to experts. Research suggests it could affect up to 90 percent of people in some populations, though prevalence rates vary.
The preoccupation with “good” foods can create stress and anxiety, making everyday tasks like grocery shopping or cooking dinner more difficult. This can further exacerbate disordered eating behaviors and negatively impact mental well-being.
Experts emphasize that a person’s worth is not determined by their food choices. Whether someone chooses a salad, a sandwich, or a pasta dish has no bearing on their value as an individual.
