Extension

 

As a parent or caregiver, many decisions must be made regarding children, including what to feed them. It’s critical to ensure children eat enough food to support optimal growth and development but also to help them develop eating behaviors that can inhibit the development of obesity and related chronic illnesses in childhood and adulthood.

 

Research has begun to explore the influence of children’s consumption of ultra-processed foods, or UPFs, said Ashlea Braun, Oklahoma State University Extension nutrition specialist.

 

“The Nova Food Classification System defines these foods as ‘industrial formulations typically with five or more and usually many ingredients not commonly used in culinary preparation,’” Braun said. “Research shows that children consume about 70% of their daily calories from UPF, while adults consume nearly 60% of their daily calories from UPF. Although there aren’t any recommendations for the amount of UPF that can be consumed in a day, excessive consumptions have been linked to an increased risk of chronic illness.” 

 

For example, research in 2021 found that each additional serving of UPF per day is associated with a 5% increased risk of overall cardiovascular disease. Not only are there long-term risks associated with excessive consumption of UPF, but introducing these foods too early and/or in excess in childhood may have unique impacts on health risks. 

Braun said research has shown children have worse locomotor development and cardiovascular fitness when they have a higher intake of UPF.

 

“When introduced too early, these highly processed foods may influence a preference for them,” she said. “For many children, fast-food meals are the norm, and these foods are hyper-palatable, which may make children more likely to eat them over time.”

 

Foods that are recommended for consumption among children, including fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and dairy may not be as appealing in comparison to UPF. And, some families plagued by food insecurity or residing in underserved communities, UPF may be the only foods to which they have constant access.

 

“These foods can be beneficial in these scenarios as they are shelf-stable, carry low risk of foodborne pathogens, and are easy to prepare for consumption,” Braun said. “Some of these foods are fortified and/or enriched with nutrients to minimize the risk of nutrient deficiencies. Therefore, for families with low access to fresh foods, UPF can fill gaps in nutrition.”

 

Parents and caregivers need to know the answer to this problem is not to consume zero UPF. Instead, prioritize consuming and improving access to minimally processed foods.

 

“Even if food to which families have access consists primarily of UPF, making choices that are relatively low in added sugars and salt, and higher in vitamins, minerals, protein, fiber and unsaturated fat, can help maximize choices,” Braun said.