UK adolescents get two-thirds of daily calories from UPFs, says survey

Adolescents in the UK get nearly two-thirds of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods, with consumption highest among those from deprived backgrounds. The findings emerged from an analysis of food diaries from nearly 3,000 participants aged 11 to 18 as part of the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey.

While there was a slight decrease in ultra-processed food consumption over the study period, adolescents in the UK still consume more of these foods compared to other age groups. Dr. Yanaina Chavez-Ugalde emphasized the need to address the dominance of ultra-processed foods in adolescents' diets and promote healthier choices through policy measures.

Comprehensive policy measures are crucial to tackle the high consumption of ultra-processed foods among adolescents. Dr. Chavez-Ugalde highlighted the importance of food education, marketing regulations, and improved access to nutritious food to encourage healthier eating habits.

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