In a recent study published in the European Journal of Nutrition , researchers investigate levels and patterns of ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption in a representative sample of adolescents in the United Kingdom. Study: Ultra-processed food consumption in UK adolescents: distribution, trends, and sociodemographic correlates using the National Diet and Nutrition Survey 2008/09 to 2018/19. Image Credit: Rawpixel.
com / Shutterstock.com Trends in UPF consumption The rapid increase in chronic diet-related diseases around the world has been linked to UPFs, which are made from inexpensive industrial ingredients and additives. UPFs are also high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium while lacking essential nutrients.
Poor diet quality contributes to obesity, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and higher mortality rates. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to marketing for UPFs and, as a result, are the most frequent consumers of these unhealthy foods. UPF consumption rates differ by country and socioeconomic status, with higher intake observed in high-income nations.
For example, adolescents in Canada and the United States derive a significant portion of their calories from UPFs. The rising availability and marketing of UPFs have led to increased consumption over time. Understanding these trends, especially among adolescents, is crucial for developing effective public health strategies to reduce UPF intake and improve health outcomes.
About the study Data were analyzed fr.