Exploring the understanding of the term "ultra-processed foods" by young consumers

Low diet quality has been associated with high consumption of highly processed foods. An effective educational campaign should aim at replacing ultra-processed foods by minimally processed and unprocessed foods. The objective of this study was to explore the understanding of young consumers of the term ultra-processed foods. A study was carried out with 181 young consumers from two different countries (Argentina and Ecuador). They were asked to explain what they understood by ultra-processed foods and to list foods they considered ultra-processed. Text and content analysis were conducted on participant's responses. Participants understand ultra-processed foods as those highly processed containing many artificial ingredients. The un-natural and unhealthful dimension was also stressed on their definitions. The most relevant food items that elicit the term ultra-processed foods were processed meats, soft drinks, and canned products. However, some food items not considered ultra-processed (meat, milk, ingredients) were misclassified as ultra-processed foods. This implies that a clear definition of the term ultra-processed food should be included in any strategy aimed at curbing today's high consumption of ultra-processed foods.