Unhealthy Ultra-Processed Food Consumption in Children and Adolescents Living in the Mediterranean Area: The DELICIOUS Project

Objectives: This study addressed the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) formulated with excess of energy/fats/sugars (hence deemed as unhealthy) and factors associated with it in children and adolescents living in 5 Mediterranean countries participating to the DELICIOUS (UnDErstanding consumer food choices & promotion of healthy and sustainable Mediterranean diet and LIfestyle in Children and adolescents through behavIOUral change actionS) project. Methods: A total of 2011 parents of children and adolescents (6–17 years) participated in a survey exploring their children’s frequency consumption of unhealthy UPFs and demographic, eating, and lifestyle habits. Results: Most children consumed unhealthy UPFs daily: higher intake was associated with being older and with obesity, as well as higher parental education and younger age. Children eating more frequently out of home and with a higher number of meals were also more likely to consume unhealthier UPF. Moreover, more screen time and a lower healthy lifestyle score were associated with higher unhealthy UPF consumption. Conclusion: consumption of unhealthy UPFs seems to be preeminent in children and adolescents living in the Mediterranean area and associated with an overall unhealthy lifestyle.