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Agostoni C, Boccia S, Graffigna G, Slavin J, Abodi M, Szajewska H. What should I eat today? Evidence, guidelines, dietary patterns and consumer's behavior. Eur J Intern Med 2024; 126:26-32. [PMID: 38821785 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2024.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Over the past century, dietary recommendations emphasizing food patterns as means to deliver essential nutrients have garnered widespread acceptance. The necessity for foods supplying vital nutrients and energy throughout various life stages requires the involvement of local resources and cultural practices to prevent nutrient deficiency diseases. Since the 1980s, dietary guidelines aimed at adverting chronic diseases have relied on epidemiological research to predict which dietary patterns correlate with reduced risk of chronic disease or links to health outcomes. Dietary guidelines have been broad, typically recommending avoiding excess or deficiency of single nutrients. Efforts to fine-tune these recommendations face challenges due to a scarcity of robust scientific data supporting more specific guidance across the life cycle. Consumers have become skeptical of dietary guidelines, because media coverage of new studies is often in conflict with accepted nutrition dogma. Indications to align individual and planet's health have been issued supporting the concept of sustainable dietary patterns. Whether we really have a science-based databank to support dietary guidelines is still a matter of ongoing debate, as presented in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Agostoni
- Pediatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Stefania Boccia
- Section of Hygiene, University Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Guendalina Graffigna
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy; EngageMinds HUB, Consumer, Food & Health Engagement Research Center, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Cremona, Italy
| | - Joanne Slavin
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, St. Paul, United States
| | - Martina Abodi
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Hania Szajewska
- The Medical University of Warsaw, Department of Paediatrics, Warsaw, Poland
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Trumbo PR, Bleiweiss-Sande R, Campbell JK, Decker E, Drewnowski A, Erdman JW, Ferruzzi MG, Forde CG, Gibney MJ, Hess JM, Klurfeld DM, Latulippe ME, O’Connor LE, Reimers KJ, Rolls BJ, Schulz J, Weaver C, Yu L. Toward a science-based classification of processed foods to support meaningful research and effective health policies. Front Nutr 2024; 11:1389601. [PMID: 39055388 PMCID: PMC11271201 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1389601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Processed foods have been part of the American diet for decades, with key roles in providing a safe, available, affordable, and nutritious food supply. The USDA Food Guides beginning in 1916 and the US Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) since 1980 have included various types of commonly consumed processed foods (e.g., heated, fermented, dried) as part of their recommendations. However, there are multiple classification systems based on "level" of food processing, and additional evidence is needed to establish the specific properties of foods classified as "highly" or "ultra"-processed (HPF/UPFs). Importantly, many foods are captured under HPF/UPF definitions, ranging from ready-to-eat fortified whole grain breakfast cereals to sugar-sweetened beverages and baked goods. The consequences of implementing dietary guidance to limit all intake of foods currently classified as HPF/UPF may require additional scrutiny to evaluate the impact on consumers' ability to meet daily nutrient recommendations and to access affordable food, and ultimately, on health outcomes. Based on a meeting held by the Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences in May 2023, this paper provides perspectives on the broad array of foods classified as HPF/UPFs based on processing and formulation, including contributions to nutrient intake and dietary patterns, food acceptability, and cost. Characteristics of foods classified as UPF/HPFs are considered, including the roles and safety approval of food additives and the effect of food processing on the food matrix. Finally, this paper identifies information gaps and research needs to better understand how the processing of food affects nutrition and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula R. Trumbo
- Paula R. Trumbo Consulting, Mount Pleasant, SC, United States
- School of Health Sciences, Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, United States
| | | | - Jessica K. Campbell
- Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition, General Mills, Golden Valley, MN, United States
| | - Eric Decker
- Department of Food Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Adam Drewnowski
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - John W. Erdman
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana-Champaign, IL, United States
| | - Mario G. Ferruzzi
- Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Ciaran G. Forde
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Michael J. Gibney
- Institute of Food and Health, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Julie M. Hess
- USDA-ARS Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center, Grand Forks, ND, United States
| | - David M. Klurfeld
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Marie E. Latulippe
- Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Lauren E. O’Connor
- Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, United States
| | | | - Barbara J. Rolls
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | | | - Connie Weaver
- College of Health and Human Services, School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Lynn Yu
- The Kraft Heinz Company, Chicago, IL, United States
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Whelan K, Bancil AS, Lindsay JO, Chassaing B. Ultra-processed foods and food additives in gut health and disease. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 21:406-427. [PMID: 38388570 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-024-00893-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) and food additives have become ubiquitous components of the modern human diet. There is increasing evidence of an association between diets rich in UPFs and gut disease, including inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer and irritable bowel syndrome. Food additives are added to many UPFs and have themselves been shown to affect gut health. For example, evidence shows that some emulsifiers, sweeteners, colours, and microparticles and nanoparticles have effects on a range of outcomes, including the gut microbiome, intestinal permeability and intestinal inflammation. Broadly speaking, evidence for the effect of UPFs on gut disease comes from observational epidemiological studies, whereas, by contrast, evidence for the effect of food additives comes largely from preclinical studies conducted in vitro or in animal models. Fewer studies have investigated the effect of UPFs or food additives on gut health and disease in human intervention studies. Hence, the aim of this article is to critically review the evidence for the effects of UPF and food additives on gut health and disease and to discuss the clinical application of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Whelan
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Aaron S Bancil
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - James O Lindsay
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, Barts and the London School of Medicine, London, UK
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Carvalho GC, Pereira MR, de Lima Macena M, Silva Junior AE, Silva DR, Ferro DC, Paula DTDC, Melo JMF, Farias da Silva MCT, Bueno NB. Type and timing of ultra-processed foods consumption and its association with dietary intake and physical activity in women with obesity living in poverty. J Hum Nutr Diet 2024; 37:737-748. [PMID: 38558169 DOI: 10.1111/jhn.13303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study aimed to investigate the type and timing of ultra-processed foods (UPF) consumption and its association with dietary intake (DI) and physical activity (PA) in women with obesity living in poverty. METHODS A cross-sectional study was employed. Obesity was defined by at least two criteria (body mass index, waist circumference or % fat mass). Poverty was defined as the three lowest classes of the Brazilian Economic Classification Criterion. PA was measured with triaxial accelerometers and DI was assessed with three 24-h dietary recalls. Foods were categorised according to the NOVA classification, with UPF classified into five subgroups, as well as the timing of consumption into six meals. RESULTS In total, 56 adult women were included. Overall energy intake was 1653.21 (503.22) kcal/day. UPF intake was 21.62% (11.94%) kcal/day, being higher at breakfast (4.91% kcal/day), afternoon snack (5.39% kcal/day) and dinner (5.01% kcal/day). Only UPF subgroup 4 (sandwich biscuits, sweets, or treats) showed a positive association with energy intake (β = 54.40 [27.6, 81.10] kcal/day) and a negative association with protein intake (β = -0.31% [-0.48%, -0.14%] kcal/day). UPF consumption in morning (β = -0.41% [-0.79%, -0.02%] kcal/day) and afternoon (β = -0.18% [-0.33%, -0.04%] kcal/day) snacks was associated with lower protein intake. Furthermore, lunchtime UPF consumption was positively associated with walking time (β = 0.16% [0.02%; 0.30%]) and steps/hour (β = 8.72 [1.50; 15.94] steps/h). CONCLUSIONS Women with obesity living in poverty consume more UPF during breakfast, afternoon snack and dinner. Physical activity is positively associated with UPF consumption at lunch. UPF, such as sandwich biscuits, sweets or treats, contribute to increasing energy intake and reducing protein intake.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mateus de Lima Macena
- Postgraduate Program in Nutrition, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, SP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Eduardo Silva Junior
- Postgraduate Program in Nutrition, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, SP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dafiny Rodrigues Silva
- Postgraduate Program in Nutrition, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, SP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Nassib Bezerra Bueno
- Faculty of Nutrition, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Nutrition, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, SP, São Paulo, Brazil
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Dicken SJ, Batterham RL, Brown A. Nutrients or processing? An analysis of food and drink items from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey based on nutrient content, the NOVA classification and front of package traffic light labelling. Br J Nutr 2024; 131:1619-1632. [PMID: 38220223 PMCID: PMC11043912 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114524000096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
UK front of package labelling (FOPL) informs consumers on the nutrient content of food. However, FOPL does not consider food processing, and with the UK government being urged to act on ultra-processed food (UPF), whether UPF should be added to FOPL is unclear. This study compared food and drink in the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) Intake24 database based on FOPL, nutrient content and NOVA classification, to understand whether UPF are covered by dietary recommendations for foods high in fat, salt and sugar. NDNS items were coded into minimally processed food (MPF), processed culinary ingredients, processed food and UPF according to the NOVA classification and FOPL traffic lights. UPF contained greater energy, fat, saturated fat (SF), total sugar (TS) and salt than MPF. UPF had a greater odds of containing red FOPL and an unhealthier overall FOPL score (OR:4·59 (95 % CI: 3·79, 5·57); OR:7·0 (95 % CI: 6·1, 8·2), respectively) and lower odds of containing green FOPL (OR:0·05 (95 % CI: 0·03, 0·10)), compared with MPFs. For items with no red FOPL, UPF still contained greater energy, fat, SF, TS and salt than MPF. However, several UPF have healthier FOPL scores. UPF had an unhealthier nutritional profile and FOPL score than MPF. For items with no red FOPL, UPF still had an unhealthier profile than MPF, with a higher energy density. Importantly, not all UPF were unhealthy according to FOPL. These results indicate partial overlap between FOPL, nutrient content and NOVA classification of UK food and drink products, with implications for UK food and drink labelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J. Dicken
- Centre for Obesity Research, Department of Medicine, University College London (UCL), LondonWC1E 6JF, UK
| | - Rachel L. Batterham
- Centre for Obesity Research, Department of Medicine, University College London (UCL), LondonWC1E 6JF, UK
| | - Adrian Brown
- Centre for Obesity Research, Department of Medicine, University College London (UCL), LondonWC1E 6JF, UK
- National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Centre, University College London Hospital (UCLH), LondonW1T 7DN, UK
- Bariatric Centre for Weight Management and Metabolic Surgery, University College London Hospital (UCLH), LondonNW1 2BU, UK
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Hess JM. Reply to Van Elswyk et al. J Nutr 2024; 154:1474-1475. [PMID: 38331347 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2024.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Hess
- From the US Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Research Services, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center, Grand Forks, ND, United States.
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Russell C, Sievert KE, Dickie S, Machado PP. The use of food processing terminology in Australian news media: a content analysis. Public Health Nutr 2024; 27:e112. [PMID: 38557499 PMCID: PMC11036430 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980024000685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine whether ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are being discussed in news media in Australia and whether this terminology, as described in the NOVA system, is being applied accurately. DESIGN Interpretive content analysis of online and print media articles that mentioned UPFs from 2009 to 2023 in Australia. SETTING Australia. PARTICIPANTS Online and print media articles. RESULTS A total of two hundred ninety-eight Australian media articles were captured. A substantial increase in the number of UPF articles was observed between 2017-2019 and 2021-2023. The UPF concept was inaccurately explained or defined in 32 % of the articles and was frequently used interchangeably with other descriptors, such as 'highly or heavily processed food', 'junk food', 'unhealthy food', 'packaged food' and 'discretionary food'. Most of the articles had a health focus; however, sustainability interest increased, particularly in the past 18 months. CONCLUSIONS UPFs are increasingly being discussed in news media in Australia; however, the concept is still incorrectly presented in over a third of articles. This highlights the importance of improving the literacy about UPFs to ensure that messages are communicated in a way that is salient, accessible and accurate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cherie Russell
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin
University, Geelong, VIC3125, Australia
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Deakin
University, Geelong, VIC,
Australia
- Healthy Food Systems Australia, Melbourne,
VIC, Australia
| | - Katherine E Sievert
- Global Centre for Preventive Health and Nutrition, Deakin
University, Geelong, VIC,
Australia
- Healthy Food Systems Australia, Melbourne,
VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah Dickie
- Healthy Food Systems Australia, Melbourne,
VIC, Australia
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food, Monash
University, Melbourne, VIC,
Australia
| | - Priscila Pereira Machado
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin
University, Geelong, VIC3125, Australia
- Healthy Food Systems Australia, Melbourne,
VIC, Australia
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin
University, Geelong, VIC3125, Australia
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Van Elswyk ME, Gifford CL, McNeill SH. NOVA Classification: Another Opportunity for Misclassification of Meat. J Nutr 2024; 154:1472-1473. [PMID: 38331349 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.12.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cody L Gifford
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
| | - Shalene H McNeill
- National Cattlemen's Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, Centennial, CO, United States
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Nees S, Lutsiv T, Thompson HJ. Ultra-Processed Foods-Dietary Foe or Potential Ally? Nutrients 2024; 16:1013. [PMID: 38613046 PMCID: PMC11013700 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has steadily increased in the United States. Health experts attribute the increasing prevalence of NCDs, in part, to the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) based on epidemiological observations. However, no definitive evidence of causality has been established. Consequently, there is an ongoing debate over whether adverse health outcomes may be due to the low nutrient density per kilocalorie, the processing techniques used during the production of UPFs, taste preference-driven overconsumption of calories, or unidentified factors. Recognizing that "the science is not settled," we propose an investigative process in this narrative review to move the field beyond current controversies and potentially identify the basis of causality. Since many consumers depend on UPFs due to their shelf stability, affordability, availability, ease of use, and safety from pathogens, we also suggest a paradigm for guiding both the formulation of UPFs by food designers and the selection of UPFs by consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Nees
- Graduate Program in Horticulture and Human Health, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Tymofiy Lutsiv
- Cancer Prevention Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
- Graduate Program in Cell and Molecular Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Henry J. Thompson
- Graduate Program in Horticulture and Human Health, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
- Cancer Prevention Laboratory, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
- Graduate Program in Cell and Molecular Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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Dicken SJ, Batterham RL. Ultra-processed Food and Obesity: What Is the Evidence? Curr Nutr Rep 2024; 13:23-38. [PMID: 38294671 PMCID: PMC10924027 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-024-00517-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Obesity is a growing global healthcare concern. A proposed driver is the recent increase in ultra-processed food (UPF) intake. However, disagreement surrounds the concept of UPF, the strength of evidence, and suggested mechanisms. Therefore, this review aimed to critically appraise the evidence on UPF and obesity. RECENT FINDINGS Observational studies demonstrate positive associations between UPF intake, weight gain, and overweight/obesity, more clearly in adults than children/adolescents. This is supported by high-quality clinical data. Several mechanisms are proposed, but current understanding is inconclusive. Greater UPF consumption has been a key driver of obesity. There is a need to change the obesogenic environment to support individuals to reduce their UPF intake. The UPF concept is a novel approach that is not explained with existing nutrient- and food-based frameworks. Critical analysis of methodologies provides confidence, but future observational and experimental research outputs with greater methodological rigor will strengthen findings, which are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Dicken
- Centre for Obesity Research, Department of Medicine, University College London (UCL), London, WC1E 6JF, UK
| | - Rachel L Batterham
- Centre for Obesity Research, Department of Medicine, University College London (UCL), London, WC1E 6JF, UK.
- Bariatric Centre for Weight Management and Metabolic Surgery, University College London Hospital (UCLH), London, NW1 2BU, UK.
- National Institute for Health Research, Biomedical Research Centre, University College London Hospital (UCLH), London, W1T 7DN, UK.
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Malamatenios O, Campbell JL, Schofield G, Zinn C. The Human Interference Scoring System (HISS): A New Tool for Quantifying Food Quality Based on Its Level of Processing. Nutrients 2024; 16:536. [PMID: 38398860 PMCID: PMC10892936 DOI: 10.3390/nu16040536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The Human Interference Scoring System (HISS) is a novel food-based diet-quality-classification system based on the existing NOVA method. HISS involves food and fluid allocation into categories from digital imagery based on food processing levels, followed by meal plan analysis using food-servings quantification. The primary purpose of this work was to evaluate the reliability of HISS. Trained nutrition professionals analyzed digital photographs from five hypothetical 24 h food recalls and categorized foods into one of four HISS categories. A secondary purpose was to assess the nutrient composition of the food recalls and other selected foods from the HISS categories. Participants effectively categorized foods into HISS categories, with only minor discrepancies noted. High inter-rater reliability was observed in the outer HISS categories: unprocessed and ultra-processed foods. Ultra-processed items consistently displayed elevated energy, carbohydrates, and sugar compared to unprocessed foods, while unprocessed foods exhibited notably higher dietary fiber. This study introduces the HISS as a potentially useful tool for quantifying a food-quality-based system using digital-photography-based assessments. Its high inter-rater reliability and ability to capture relationships between food processing levels and nutrient composition make it a promising method for assessing dietary habits and food quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Caryn Zinn
- Human Potential Centre, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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Fraga ACSA, Bastos MP, Theme-Filha MM. Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods during pregnancy is associated with sociodemographic, behavioral, and obstetric factors: A cohort study. Nutr Res 2024; 121:28-38. [PMID: 38039599 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2023.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
A diet based on ultra-processed food (UPF) does not meet nutritional needs, especially during pregnancy. The aim of this study is to assess the change in UPF consumption from preconception to pregnancy and associated factors. Our hypothesis is that women tend to adopt a healthier eating pattern during pregnancy, decreasing the intake of UPF and increasing the intake of unprocessed/minimally processed foods. A prospective cohort study with 326 participants was carried out from 2016 to 2019 in 2 health units in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Pregestational food consumption assessed using the food frequency questionnaire in the prenatal interview in women up to 20 gestational weeks and gestational consumption in the interview 2 months after delivery. Food items classified according to the NOVA system. For the mean variation from preconception to gestational UPF consumption, we used the generalized estimating equations model with linear distribution. Control of confounding variables was based on the literature on factors associated with UPF consumption, using a 3-level hierarchical model. The proportion of UPF energy consumption was 28.9% in preconception and 33% during pregnancy. Older and more educated women had a lower mean variation in the consumption of UPF during the pregnancy. A higher average consumption of UPF observed among women physically inactive before pregnancy, who smoked during pregnancy, were multiparous, and with had a low pregestational weight. These results reflect similar behavior to that of the general population, aggravated by a significant increase during pregnancy. However, older and more educated women and those with healthy behaviors showed lower UPF intake in pregnancy.
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Baker BH, Melough MM, Paquette AG, Barrett ES, Day DB, Kannan K, Hn Nguyen R, Bush NR, LeWinn KZ, Carroll KN, Swan SH, Zhao Q, Sathyanarayana S. Ultra-processed and fast food consumption, exposure to phthalates during pregnancy, and socioeconomic disparities in phthalate exposures. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 183:108427. [PMID: 38194756 PMCID: PMC10834835 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Consuming ultra-processed foods may increase exposure to phthalates, a group of endocrine disruptors prevalent in food contact materials. OBJECTIVES Investigate associations between ultra-processed food intake and urinary phthalates during pregnancy, and evaluate whether ultra-processed foods mediate socioeconomic disparities in phthalate exposures. METHODS In a socioeconomically diverse sample of 1031 pregnant women from the Conditions Affecting Neurocognitive Development and Learning in Early Childhood (CANDLE) Study in the urban South, the Block Food Frequency Questionnaire was administered and urinary phthalate metabolites were measured in the second trimester. Linear regressions modeled associations between phthalates and overall ultra-processed food consumption, individual ultra-processed foods, and exploratory factor analysis dietary patterns. Causal mediation analyses examined whether ultra-processed food intake mediates relationships between socioeconomic disparities and phthalate exposures. RESULTS Ultra-processed foods constituted 9.8-59.0 % (mean = 38.6 %) of participants' diets. 10 % higher dietary proportion of ultra-processed foods was associated with 13.1 % (95 %CI: 3.4 %-22.9 %) higher molar sum concentrations of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate metabolites (ΣDEHP). 10 % higher consumption of minimally-processed foods was associated with lower ΣDEHP (10.8 %: 3.4 %-22.9 %). Ultra- and minimally-processed food consumption were not associated with non-DEHP metabolites. Standard deviation higher consumptions of hamburger/cheeseburger, French fries, soda, and cake were associated with 10.5 % (4.2 %-17.1 %), 9.2 % (2.6 %-16.2 %), 7.4 % (1.4 %-13.6 %), and 6.0 % (0.0 %-12.4 %), respectively, higher ΣDEHP. Exploratory factor analysis corroborated positive associations of processed food with ΣDEHP, and uncovered a healthy dietary pattern associated with lower urinary ΣDEHP, mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) (MEHHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) (MECPP), mono(2-carboxymethylhexyl) (MCMHP), and mono-isononyl (MINP) phthalates. Significant indirect effects indicated that lower income and education levels were associated with 1.9 % (0.2 %-4.2 %) and 1.4 % (0.1 %-3.3 %) higher ΣDEHP, respectively, mediated via increased ultra-processed food consumption. CONCLUSIONS Consumption of ultra-processed foods may increase exposure to phthalates. Policies to reduce dietary phthalate exposures from food packaging and processing are needed, as socioeconomic barriers can preclude dietary recommendations as a sole means to reduce phthalate exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brennan H Baker
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | | | - Alison G Paquette
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Drew B Day
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - Nicole R Bush
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kaja Z LeWinn
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Shanna H Swan
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Qi Zhao
- University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Sheela Sathyanarayana
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
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14
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Dicken SJ, Batterham RL, Brown A. "An ultraprocessed diet meeting national dietary guidelines: valid and fit for purpose?". J Nutr 2023; 153:3617-3618. [PMID: 37918669 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J Dicken
- From the Centre for Obesity Research, Department of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel L Batterham
- From the Centre for Obesity Research, Department of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian Brown
- From the Centre for Obesity Research, Department of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
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15
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Hess JM. Reply to S Dicken et al. J Nutr 2023; 153:3619. [PMID: 37918670 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Julie M Hess
- USDA Agricultural Research Service, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center, Grand Forks, ND, USA..
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16
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O'Connor LE, Higgins KA, Smiljanec K, Bergia R, Brown AW, Baer D, Davis C, Ferruzzi MG, Miller K, Rowe S, Rueda JMW, Andres A, Cash SB, Coupland J, Crimmins M, Fiecke C, Forde CG, Fukagawa NK, Hall KD, Hamaker B, Herrick KA, Hess JM, Heuven LA, Juul F, Malcomson FC, Martinez-Steele E, Mattes RD, Messina M, Mitchell A, Zhang FF. Perspective: A Research Roadmap about Ultra-Processed Foods and Human Health for the United States Food System: Proceedings from an Interdisciplinary, Multi-Stakeholder Workshop. Adv Nutr 2023; 14:1255-1269. [PMID: 37722488 PMCID: PMC10721509 DOI: 10.1016/j.advnut.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Our objective was to convene interdisciplinary experts from government, academia, and industry to develop a Research Roadmap to identify research priorities about processed food intake and risk for obesity and cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) among United States populations. We convened attendees at various career stages with diverse viewpoints in the field. We held a "Food Processing Primer" to build foundational knowledge of how and why foods are processed, followed by presentations about how processed foods may affect energy intake, obesity, and CMD risk. Breakout groups discussed potential mechanistic and confounding explanations for associations between processed foods and obesity and CMD risk. Facilitators created research questions (RQs) based on key themes from discussions. Different breakout groups convened to discuss what is known and unknown for each RQ and to develop sub-RQs to address gaps. Workshop attendees focused on ultra-processed foods (UPFs; Nova Group 4) because the preponderance of evidence is based on this classification system. Yet, heterogeneity and subjectivity in UPF classification was a challenge for RQ development. The 6 RQs were: 1) What objective methods or measures could further categorize UPFs, considering food processing, formulation, and the interaction of the two? 2) How can exposure assessment of UPF intake be improved? 3) Does UPF intake influence risk for obesity or CMDs, independent of diet quality? 4) What, if any, attributes of UPFs influence ingestive behavior and contribute to excess energy intake? 5) What, if any, attributes of UPFs contribute to clinically meaningful metabolic responses? 6) What, if any, external environmental factors lead people to consume high amounts of UPFs? Uncertainty and complexity around UPF intake warrant further complementary and interdisciplinary causal, mechanistic, and methodological research related to obesity and CMD risk to understand the utility of applying classification by degree of processing to foods in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E O'Connor
- Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, United States.
| | - Kelly A Higgins
- Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, United States
| | | | - Robert Bergia
- Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), Decatur, IL, United States
| | - Andrew W Brown
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - David Baer
- Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, United States
| | - Cindy Davis
- Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, United States
| | - Mario G Ferruzzi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States; Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Kevin Miller
- Bell Institute of Health & Nutrition, General Mills, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | | | | | - Aline Andres
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Sean B Cash
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - John Coupland
- Penn State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Meghan Crimmins
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Chelsey Fiecke
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States; Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Ciarán G Forde
- Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Naomi K Fukagawa
- Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, United States
| | - Kevin D Hall
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Bruce Hamaker
- Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Kirsten A Herrick
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Julie M Hess
- Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Grand Forks, ND, United States
| | - Lise Aj Heuven
- Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Filippa Juul
- New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, United States
| | | | | | | | - Mark Messina
- Soy Nutrition Institute Global, Pittsfield, MA, United States
| | - Alyson Mitchell
- Food Science and Technology, University of California at Davis, CA, United States
| | - Fang Fang Zhang
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University, Boston, MA, United States
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