Ultra-processed food intake is associated with low diet quality in young adult college students

Objective: Examine associations between ultra-processed food (UPF) intake and diet quality (DQ) in college students. Participants: Analysis included 695 participants ages 18-39 years. Methods: Dietary data were collected using the online Diet History Questionnaires II and III. The Healthy Eating Index 2020 (HEI-2020) adult score assessed DQ. NOVA classification was used to identify UPFs. Multivariable linear regression was used to examine associations between %EI from UPF and HEI-2020 total and component scores, controlling for gender, race, smoking, campus meal plan, and EI. Results: Mean age was 19.2 years. In fully adjusted models a statistically significant inverse association was found between %EI from UPF and HEI-2020 total scores (F = 40.72, p < 0.001, R²=0.27), all HEI adequacy scores except whole grains (not significant) and dairy (weak positive association), and for saturated fat, refined grains, and sodium scores. Conclusions: Addressing UPF intake in young adult college students could be a potential strategy to improve DQ.