Ultra-processed food intake and its nutritional consequences among youth when consuming vegan, lacto-ovo-vegetarian, pescatarian or omnivore diets: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background Dietary recommendations promote a predominantly plant-based diet, and the growing interest in such diets has resulted in an increased supply of ultra-processed plant-based alternatives to animal-based foods such as milk and meat. However, most evidence points towards adverse health effects of a high intake of ultra-processed foods (UPF). The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in UPF intake and its nutritional consequences in a youth population in Sweden consuming vegan, lacto-ovo-vegetarian, pescatarian, or omnivore diets. Methods In total, 244 participants, 16–24 y old, participated in the cross-sectional study VeggiSkills-Sweden. Foods reported in four 24-h recalls were classified into UPF or non-UPF according to the Nova classification system. Percentage contribution of UPF to energy, nutrients, and other food components was investigated and compared between the four dietary groups. Associations between UPF intake and demographic variables, health-related lifestyle factors and nutrient status were analysed. Results Vegans obtained more energy, nutrients (e.g., n-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, B 12 , calcium and zinc), and salt from UPFs compared to the other dietary groups but did not have a higher energy intake or higher body mass index. They consumed more total dietary fiber and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and less saturated fatty acids (SFA). Also, vegans obtained all vitamin D and B 12 from UPFs. Across the entire study population, participants with the highest intake of UPF had a lower level of general nutrition knowledge and consumed less whole grain and more free sugars, but less SFA and more PUFA. UPF intake was not associated with biochemical indicators of nutritional status. Conclusions Youths adhering to a vegan diet obtained more energy and nutrients, including nutrients of concern in a plant-based diet, from UPFs than youth adhering to lacto-ovo-vegetarian, pescatarian or omnivore diets. As UPFs are defined today, authorities should be careful discouraging UPF intake while at the same time promoting a more plant-based diet among youths.