How to evaluate Ultra-processed Food Intake in pediatrics? UPF Score: an easy alternative

Background The rising intake of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) among children and adolescents poses challenges due to the lack of precise and accessible tools to quantify such intake. This complicates understanding its effects on dietary quality and hampers the design of effective preventive interventions across diverse socioeconomic and geographic contexts. Objective : This paper aims to determine the relationship between the UPF score and dietary characteristics. Methods This cross-sectional study involved 353 participants aged 3 to 17. The methods included (1) a three-day food intake record; (2) an evaluation of intake across five food groups; (3) categorization of intake frequency (0, 1, 2, or up to 3 times weekly); and (4) scoring by cumulative intake. Principal component analysis and regression models were utilized to assess diet associations with UPF score. Results Higher UPF score groups showed increased intake of energy, fats, and sodium (p < 0.01); decreased fiber intake (p = 0.03), vegetables, fruits, and cereals (p < 0.05); higher sugar intake (p < 0.01); and reduced intake of vitamins A and C (p < 0.05). Four principal components, representing over 65% of sample variability, identified two healthy and two less healthy dietary patterns. Linear regression indicated higher fiber intake at lower UPF scores, declining with higher UPF scores. Conclusions The UPF score represents a useful tool for efficiently and swiftly assessing UPF intake and dietary characteristics in pediatric population.