What type of food consists of items that have undergone various levels of processing before sale?

Packaged processed food refers to items that have been altered from their original state through various methods of processing before they reach consumers. This processing can include canning, freezing, drying, or adding preservatives and flavors, which helps extend shelf life and enhance taste. Packaged processed foods often come in convenient forms, making them easy for consumers to purchase and prepare.

This option stands out because it directly addresses the concept of food undergoing processing. Other types of food mentioned, such as raw food, whole food, and ready-to-eat food, do not necessarily imply the same level or variations of processing. Raw food typically refers to unprocessed items in their natural state, while whole food signifies foods that are minimally processed and retain most of their nutritional value. Ready-to-eat food, on the other hand, indicates items that are prepared and suitable for immediate consumption but may not encompass the extensive range of processing implied in the question. Thus, packaged processed food is the most accurate term that captures the essence of food items that have undergone various levels of processing before they are sold.