Ultra-Processed Food Consumption Among Chilean Preschoolers Is Associated With Diets Promoting Non-communicable...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nutrition
• Public Health Nutrition
• Food Science

Background:

• Ultra-processed foods (UPF) are linked to poor diets and adverse health outcomes in adults.
• Evidence suggests a higher dietary share of UPF in young children, but data is scarce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify ultra-processed food intake in Chilean preschoolers.
• To assess the association between UPF intake and diet nutrient composition.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional analysis of dietary data from 960 preschoolers using 24-h recall.
• Food categorization by the NOVA classification system.
• Multivariate regression analysis controlling for covariates.

Main Results:

• UPF accounted for 49% of total energy intake in the study sample.
• Higher UPF intake correlated with increased energy, saturated/monounsaturated fats, carbohydrates, total sugars, and vitamin D.
• UPF intake was negatively associated with protein, polyunsaturated fats, fiber, zinc, vitamin A, and sodium intake.

Conclusions:

• Ultra-processed foods are a primary energy source for Chilean preschoolers.
• The proportion of UPF in the diet significantly impacts nutrient intake.
• Dietary improvement strategies should focus on limiting UPF consumption alongside promoting healthy foods.