Vegan diets can be high in ultra-processed foods, but this might not be a problem for most people in industrialized societies. The term ultra-processed is not well defined and can include a wide variety of foods, popular due to convenience, taste, and durability. Some are consumed to replace meat or dairy in plant-based diets, sparking health concerns. However, not all ultra-processed foods are harmful, with important distinctions made by the Nova system based on processing levels. While some research links ultra-processed foods to negative health effects, not all plant-based ultra-processed foods are equal, with some healthier than animal-based alternatives. Despite the need for balance, experts advise minimizing ultra-processed food consumption overall.
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20241011-what-explains-increasing-anxiety-about-ultra-processed-plant-based-foods