High intake of ultra-processed foods in young children

Written By Lorene Amet

A new study published in the European Journal of Nutrition conducted in England and Wales on 2,714 toddlers and 615 children examined ultra-processed food (UPF) intake, its contribution to diet, key food sub-groups, nutrient associations, and changes over time.

Key Findings were:

  • High UPF consumption: UPF made up 46.9% of total energy intake at 21 months, rising to 59.4% at 7 years.

  • Main UPF sources: Toddlers consumed more yogurts, high-fiber cereals, and wholegrain bread, whereas older children consumed more puddings, sweet cereal products, and white bread.

  • Nutritional impact: Higher UPF intake was linked to excessive free sugar and sodium consumption, while lower UPF intake was associated with higher fat, protein, and fiber intake.

  • Tracking over time: Children with high UPF intake in toddlerhood were significantly more likely to have high intake in mid-childhood (OR 9.40).

The Power of Early Nutrition: Why Toddlers’ Diets Matter

We all want the best for our children, and one of the most powerful ways to set them up for a healthy future is through a varied and nutritious diet from an early age. Research shows that children in the UK often fall short of dietary guidelines, consuming too much free sugar, saturated fat, and too little fiber. Shockingly, by the time children start school at age 4–5, 22% already have overweight or obesity, a number that jumps to 38% by age 10–11.

Early Food Experiences Shape Future Preferences

Food preferences aren’t just genetic—they are also shaped by early exposure. Studies have shown that repeatedly offering vegetables in infancy and toddlerhood makes children more likely to accept and enjoy them later on. However, introducing processed, sugary, or salty foods too early can set the stage for lifelong cravings for these less nutritious options. This highlights the importance of fostering healthy eating habits early, as they can have long-term impacts on health and well-being.

The Rise of Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) in Children's Diets

There’s growing concern about the role of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in children’s diets. UPFs are industrially manufactured products made by breaking down whole foods and reassembling them with added sugars, fats, starches, and artificial ingredients. Studies have consistently linked higher UPF intake to obesity and poorer health outcomes in both children and adults.

A meta-analysis of 13 countries found that higher UPF intake was associated with higher consumption of unhealthy nutrients (fat, sugar, sodium) and lower intake of essential vitamins, fiber, and protein. Another study across eight countries confirmed that children who ate more UPFs had diets with higher energy density and lower fiber content, both of which are linked to increased obesity risk.

What About Toddlers? Limited Data, But Growing Concerns

While there’s plenty of research on UPF consumption in older children, data on toddlers is more limited. A study in Brazil found that UPFs and processed foods made up 34.8% of toddlers' total energy intake. In the UK, research suggests that many parents opt for commercial infant foods over home-cooked meals, believing them to be nutritionally balanced. However, an analysis of 3,427 infant food products in Europe found that nearly 30% were ultra-processed, often higher in fat, sugar, and sodium than less processed options.

One major concern is the prolonged use of commercial milk formula (CMF) beyond 12 months, which is classified as a UPF and has been associated with parental fears of inadequate nutrition. In reality, whole foods should replace formula after the first year to ensure balanced nutrition.

Why It Matters

Children’s diets in the early years can set the foundation for lifelong health. With UPFs making up a growing portion of children’s diets, it’s crucial for parents and caregivers to focus on whole, minimally processed foods whenever possible. Encouraging children to enjoy a variety of nutritious foods early on can help prevent obesity, poor health outcomes, and unhealthy eating habits later in life.

The takeaway?

  • Introduce a variety of whole foods early to shape healthy preferences.

  • Limit ultra-processed foods, which are linked to poor health outcomes.

  • Encourage home-cooked meals and be mindful of commercial infant foods.

  • Support policies that promote better food choices for young children.

By making small, mindful changes, we can help our children develop a healthier relationship with food—one that lasts a lifetime.

Conclusion

UPF intake starts early and increases with age, contributing to poor nutrient profiles. Early intervention and policy changes are needed to reduce UPF consumption in young children.

References: The study mentioned here:

Conway, R.E., Heuchan, G.N., Heggie, L. et al. Ultra-processed food intake in toddlerhood and mid-childhood in the UK: cross sectional and longitudinal perspectives. Eur J Nutr 63, 3149–3160 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-024-03496-7

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Lorene Amet
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