In recent years, supermarket shelves have been filled with products labeled as reduced in sugar, free of nitrite, low in salt, or high in protein. These items are often marketed as healthier alternatives, but choosing the right product for one's health can be more complex than it seems. The NGO Foodwatch has raised concerns about so-called high-protein products, warning that they often contain not just protein but also ingredients commonly found in ultra-processed foods. These include modified starches, gellan gum, and glucose syrup. Foodwatch argues that the emphasis on protein in marketing can mislead consumers, creating what is known as the "halo effect"—a psychological bias where one positive attribute (like high protein) overshadows other potentially negative qualities (like high processing). On its website, Foodwatch has identified ten products that fall into the category of ultra-processed foods. These include Nature Valley cereal bars, which are criticized for having an extensive list of ingredients, palm oil, and high sugar content. Another product on the list is a Carrefour Sensation penne salad with roasted chicken and almonds, which contains dextrose and modified potato starch, along with potassium disulfite, an additive linked to a higher risk of cancer and type 2 diabetes. A drink that has drawn particular criticism is Hipro (Danone) - Hipro Myrtle Flavor, which contains milk proteins, thickeners, and intense sweeteners. Similarly, Nestlé’s Lion Protein cereals show signs of ultra-processing when compared to their classic versions. Other products under scrutiny include Lactel (Lactalis) - Chocolate Protein Milk, which contains 9.1 grams of sugar—similar to that found in a soda—and a gelling agent. Wasa (Barilla) - Wasa protein + spreads are criticized for the addition of gluten, which classifies them as ultra-processed. Starbucks’ Chocolate Mocha Protein drink is also targeted for containing milk proteins, gellan gum, and carrageenan, substances that have raised health concerns. Alpro (Danone) - Soy Proteins drink is highlighted for containing potassium phosphates and gellan gum, both of which are considered controversial. At Marque repère (E. Leclerc), a Délisse SPORT protein yogurt with blueberries is criticized for its use of fruit pectin and two intense sweeteners. Léa Redon, Campaigns Officer at Foodwatch France, summarized the findings by stating that the ten highlighted products, despite their nutritional claims, are all ultra-processed. Some are high in controversial additives, while others contain large amounts of sugar. She notes that many brands have recognized this as a profitable business opportunity, often inflating prices. This creates a double burden on consumers, affecting both their health and their wallets. To help consumers make better choices, Foodwatch advocates for mandatory front-of-package labeling that indicates whether a product is ultra-processed, in addition to the existing Nutri-Score system. The NGO also recommends that consumers read ingredient lists carefully, favoring products with shorter ingredient lists. It is important to be cautious of marketing claims and not to rely solely on the promises written on packaging, but instead to take the time to understand the composition of the products they choose.