I recently stumbled upon a tool that I think could be a game-changer for those of us trying to make healthier choices with our food and cosmetics: the Yuka app. This is a free app that helps you scan and evaluate food and cosmetic products based on their health impact.
Scanning My Pantry (with Some Surprising Results)
The way it works is simple: scan the barcode on any food or cosmetic product, and Yuka will give it a score out of 100, accompanied by a breakdown of the positives and negatives. For example, just last week, my wife scanned some of our pantry’s beloved chips—delicious, but as it turns out, not the healthiest option around. They scored a whopping 38 out of 100, which is, let’s face it, not very good.
What was cool, though, was that the app didn’t just leave us feeling guilty about our snack choices. It suggested an alternative: Blue Corn Tortilla Chips with Sea Salt from Tostitos, which scored a much more respectable 79 out of 100. Yuka explained why—these chips were lower in salt, saturated fats and additives, while still packing the same crunch we love. It was like having a personal health consultant right there in my kitchen!
Why This Matters (Hint: Ultra-Processed Foods are Everywhere)
The real eye-opener is just how much of what we consume is ultra-processed. Did you know that 57% of the calories we eat in America come from ultra-processed foods, and only 10% from fruits and vegetables? No wonder so many of us are feeling sluggish and less than our best. Ultra-processed foods tend to be higher in sugars, fats, salt and chemical additives, which can contribute to long-term health issues like obesity, inflammation, diabetes, high blood pressure and even heart disease.
That’s where the Yuka app really shines. It’s not about eliminating treats or snacks altogether (I still need my chips from time to time!), but it raises awareness of what’s in the foods we eat. This simple awareness can make a big difference in helping us swap out overly processed items for better alternatives—even if it’s just a small change like switching chips. Over time, these small swaps can lead to healthier eating habits and more energy.
Yuka’s Independence: A Key Reason to Trust It
One of the reasons I’ve become a fan of Yuka is that it doesn’t accept any sponsorships or advertising from food companies. This means that the app’s ratings are independent and unbiased. Yuka doesn’t take money to promote or rate any specific products, which is refreshing in a world where we often wonder if big companies influence the information we get. Instead, the app sustains itself through other means, like selling books and offering a premium subscription. This independence really boosts my confidence in using it to make more informed food choices.
Cosmetics You Say?
As I mentioned before, you can use the Yuka app to scan cosmetic products. Well, I decided to put my own essentials to the test. I scanned my shaving cream, and the result was a jaw-dropping 4 out of 100! But wait—it gets worse. My shampoo scored an unforgivable ZERO. Why? Because both contain hazardous substances that other countries regulate, but here in the U.S.? Not so much. Needless to say, I’m ditching both products immediately.
Yuka’s Pros and Cons
It’s important to note that the Yuka app isn’t perfect. For instance, its scoring system can sometimes seem inconsistent. One food item might score poorly for reasons that seem minor, while another scores high even though it’s still not the healthiest choice. Plus, the recommendations aren’t always practical or available, which can be frustrating if you can’t find the suggested product nearby or if it’s significantly more expensive than the original item.
Despite this, Yuka is gaining traction because it encourages healthier choices in a way that’s accessible and easy to understand. It’s designed for everyday use, so you can scan products right as you’re shopping, cooking, or planning your meals. It’s empowering in a way—having the information to make informed decisions at your fingertips.
A Step Towards Healthier Eating
Ultimately, what I love most about Yuka is how it promotes small but meaningful changes. If we can reduce our consumption of ultra-processed foods by even 10-20% and incorporate more whole foods, fruits, and vegetables, we’re taking a step in the right direction. And in my opinion, the more we understand what we’re eating, the better choices we can make.
Yuka might not replace a dietitian, but it’s a helpful tool to raise awareness and empower us to be more intentional about what we’re putting on our plates.
So, if you’re like me and want to make better choices (or if you’re just curious about what’s really in that bag of chips you’re munching on), give the Yuka app a try. It’s free, easy to use, and who knows—you might find yourself making some healthier swaps without even realizing it!
Mike Thomas is a registered pharmacist and a Mayo Clinic-trained, board-certified health coach. He specializes in helping busy professionals overcome low energy, high stress, and chronic pain to reclaim their health and vitality.
This blog is for educational and informational purposes only and solely as a self-help tool for your own use. I am not providing medical, psychological, or nutrition therapy advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your own medical practitioner. Always seek the advice of your own medical practitioner and/or mental health provider about your specific health situation. For my full Disclaimer, please go to CoachMikeThomas.com.