Unhealthy ultra-processed food consumption in children and adolescents living in the Mediterranean area: The DELICIOUS Project

This study investigates the consumption patterns of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) characterized by excessive energy, fats, and sugars among children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years in five Mediterranean countries, as part of the DELICIOUS project. A total of 2011 parents participated in a survey assessing their children’s frequency of UPF consumption, along with demographic, dietary, and lifestyle factors. The findings indicate that a significant proportion of children consume unhealthy UPFs daily. Notably, higher consumption rates correlate with older age, obesity, and higher parental education levels. Additionally, children who frequently eat out or have a greater number of meals are more likely to consume unhealthy UPFs. Increased screen time and lower healthy lifestyle scores are also linked to higher UPF consumption. In conclusion, the prevalence of unhealthy UPF consumption among Mediterranean youth is concerning, reflecting broader unhealthy lifestyle patterns. [NPID: Ultra-processed foods, UPFs, dietary intake, Mediterranean, countries, children]

Year: 2025

Reference: Rosi A, Giampieri F, Abdelkarim O, Aly M, Ammar A, Frias-Toral E, Pons J, Vázquez-Araújo L, Scuderi A, Decembrino N, Leonardi A, Maniega Legarda F, Monasta L, Mata A, Chacón A, Busó P and Grosso G (2025). Unhealthy Ultra-Processed Food Consumption in Children and Adolescents Living in the Mediterranean Area: The DELICIOUS Project. Int. J. Public Health 70:1608318. doi: 10.3389/ijph.2025.1608318