12 Foods That Were Marketed as ‘Healthy’—But Weren’t

Not everything with a “healthy” label is actually good for you. This article looks at popular foods that were once sold as smart choices but turned out to be more hype than health. You might want to read this list if you’ve ever reached for a snack thinking it was doing your body good.

Tricia Quitales
April 22, 2025
3 min read

12 Foods That Were Marketed as ‘Healthy’—But Weren’t — Vincent M.A. Janssen on Pexels

Marketing can make almost anything look healthy, even when it’s packed with sugar, salt, or unhealthy ingredients. Over the years, several foods were advertised as nutritious, but a closer look showed they were far from it. From breakfast bars to fat-free snacks, these items fooled many into thinking they were making better choices. This article breaks down 12 foods that wore a health halo—but didn’t live up to the promise.

1. Granola

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Granola was often sold as a wholesome breakfast or snack, but many store-bought versions are loaded with sugar and oils. In just one bowl, it can have as many calories as a candy bar.

2. Flavored Yogurt

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Yogurt seems like a smart pick—until you check the label. Flavored varieties often contain more sugar than a dessert. You might as well be eating pudding for breakfast.

3. Veggie Chips

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They sound healthier than potato chips, but most are still deep-fried and full of salt. A tiny bit of powdered vegetable doesn’t cancel out the unhealthy fats. They’re crunchy, yes—but not clean.

4. Sports Drinks

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Marketed for athletes, these drinks are often just sugar water with bright colors. The extra sugar and calories aren’t helping unless you’re running a marathon. Water is usually the better option.

5. Low-Fat Peanut Butter

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Taking out the fat doesn’t make it healthier. Many low-fat peanut butters add sugar and fillers to keep the flavor. In the end, you’re better off with the full-fat, natural kind.

6. Trail Mix

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It has nuts and dried fruit, so it must be healthy, right? Not always. The added chocolate, sugar, and salty coatings can turn it into a candy snack, and one handful can pack a major calorie punch.

7. Frozen Diet Meals

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These meals are low in calories but often sky-high in sodium and lacking real nutrition. They’re built for shelf life, not long-term health. You might lose weight, but you’re not gaining wellness.

8. Cereal Bars

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They look like a quick breakfast but are often full of sugar and artificial flavors. Some have more sweeteners than actual cereal. They’re easy to grab but not great fuel.

9. Fruit Snacks

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Just because it says “fruit” doesn’t make it fruit. Most fruit snacks are closer to gummy candy than anything from a tree. They’re more about corn syrup than vitamins.

10. Rice Cakes

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These were a big hit during the low-fat craze. They’re made from puffed rice, which quickly turns into sugar in your body. They don’t keep you full, and they don’t offer much nutrition.

11. Smoothies (Store-Bought)

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Fresh smoothies can be healthy, but many bottled versions are packed with added sugar and juice concentrates. They often skip the fiber and overdo the calories. What looks green and clean may be hiding extra sweeteners.

12. Fat-Free Salad Dressing

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No fat usually means more sugar or thickeners to boost flavor. Plus, fat helps your body absorb vitamins from veggies. You’re better off using a small amount of olive oil or a homemade dressing.