Huel Black Edition RTD, by virtue of its industrial formulation and ingredient sourcing, falls into the category of 'ultra-processed food' (UPF) according to the NOVA classification system.

The NOVA classification system categorizes foods based on the extent and purpose of food processing. Group 4, Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs), includes industrial formulations made mostly or entirely from substances extracted from foods (oils, fats, sugar, starch, proteins), derived from food constituents (hydrogenated fats, modified starch), or synthesized in laboratories (flavor enhancers, colors, artificial sweeteners). Huel, with its blend of isolated proteins, refined oils, synthetic vitamins, minerals, emulsifiers, and stabilizers, fits this description. While UPFs are not inherently 'unhealthy,' many studies link high UPF consumption to adverse health outcomes, raising questions about the long-term effects of diets heavily reliant on such products.