Ultra-processed food makes up almost two-thirds of calorie intake of UK adolescents

Adolescents consume around two-thirds of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods (UPFs), new research from the Universities of Cambridge and Bristol has found. The study found that UPF consumption was highest among adolescents from deprived backgrounds, those of white ethnicity, and younger adolescents. UPFs are food items that are manufactured from industrial substances and contain additives such as preservatives, sweeteners, colorings, flavorings, and emulsifiers. UPFs vary greatly, but tend to indicate poor dietary quality, with higher levels of added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium, as well as decreased fiber, protein, and micronutrient content. They have been suggested as one of Read More