Ultra-processed food consumption and environmental sustainability in Türkiye: a cross-sectional analysis

Background The consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is increasing worldwide, yet there is limited research on their environmental impact. This study examined the relationship between UPF consumption and environmental footprint indicators, particularly greenhouse gas emission (GHGE) and water footprint (WF), in a sample of Turkish adults. Methods This cross-sectional study included 571 adults aged 18–64 years who applied to No. 6 Family Health Center in Ağrı, Türkiye between October 2024 and March 2025. Dietary data were collected using 24-hour recalls and UPF intake was calculated based on the NOVA classification as a percentage of total daily energy. GHGE and WF values were estimated using international databases, and sustainable nutrition behaviors were assessed via a validated scale. Associations between UPF intake and environmental indicators were analyzed using multiple linear regression models adjusted for sociodemographic variables and energy intake. Results Participants in the highest UPF tertile (T3) were younger, more likely to be single, and had higher educational levels compared to those in the lowest tertile (T1) (p<0.001). In adjusted regression models, UPF consumption was inversely associated with both WF and GHGE. Participants in T3 had a 21% lower WF (3874.8 vs. 4908.0 L/day) and a 20.5% lower GHGE (3.5 vs. 4.4 kg CO₂eq/day) than those in T1 (p<0.001). A negative correlation was observed between age and UPF intake (R²=0.143, p<0.001), whereas age was positively associated with BMI (R²=0.245, p<0.001). Conclusions UPF consumption was inversely associated with GHGE and WF among Turkish adults. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and to assess these relationships using long term and country specific data.