Consumption of ultra-processed foods and major contributing foods according to the age group in Korean adults and older adults: using data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2016–2019)
- Author:
Seulgi LEE
1
;
Jee Young KIM
;
Kirang KIM
Author Information
- Publication Type:Research Article
- From:Journal of Nutrition and Health 2025;58(1):59-76
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) play a significant role in modern diets but are associated with various health risks, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.This study examined the consumption patterns of UPFs among middle-aged adults, older adults, and the oldest older adults in South Korea to identify the key food sources contributing to UPF intake using the Korean NOVA classification system.
Methods:Data from the 2016–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analyzed for 13,396 participants aged 40 years and older. Individuals with extreme energy intakes, serious diseases, or incomplete dietary records were excluded. The UPF intake levels were categorized into quartiles (Q1–Q4) based on the proportion of energy derived from UPFs, excluding individuals who did not consume UPFs.
Results:In all age groups, the group with a high proportion of UPF consumption tended to have higher energy and macronutrient intake but lower micronutrient intake. The UPFs contributing significantly to energy intake were primarily alcohol and grain-based products.On the other hand, the energy contribution from UPFs based on legumes, milk, and dairy products tended to increase as the level of UPF consumption increased, and this trend was more significant with increasing age.
Conclusion:This study identified the differences in UPF consumption patterns across age groups and highlighted the importance of selective consumption based on the types of UPFs.
