Ultra-processed Foods and Athletes: Current Insights on Classification, Use, Awareness, and Impact-A Narrative Review

There is growing concern about the impact of food processing on human health and planetary health, with greater dietary exposure to ultra-processed foods being associated with a higher risk of adverse health outcomes. While athletes are encouraged to follow a food first approach, there are situations, where meeting performance goals is not achievable with everyday foods and drinks. In such cases, sports foods, protein-fortified foods, or discretionary foods, which due to their formulation are typically ultra-processed, may be recommended to help achieve specific goals. This review aimed to summarise the existing research on patterns of sports food and ultra-processed food use by athletes. A narrative review methodology was employed. Relevant literature was identified via searches in Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science and peak sporting body websites. There is little research on athletes and planetary health. Consumer awareness and knowledge of ultra-processed foods is an emerging area of research; no published studies in athletes were identified. The frequency of processed foods consumption by athletes has been explored in four small studies, with results suggesting frequent use of ultra-processed foods, though classification inconsistencies limit application. No studies specifically asked athletes about their reasons for consuming ultra-processed foods. Convenience and performance were common considerations for athletes when choosing general and sports foods. Benefits of ultra-processed food consumption include microbiological safety, convenience and ease of use. Current literature offers limited insight into how planetary health considerations influence athletes' food choices, and athletes' knowledge, awareness and consumption of ultra-processed foods. Further research is needed to understand the prevalence and patterns of use of sports foods and ultra-processed foods, and how dietitians/nutritionists can help athletes optimise their nutritional strategies which support performance and promote planetary health.