What question did this study set out to answer?

To review and analyze the relationship between ultra-processed food consumption and overweight or obesity in adolescents.

April 17, 2026PLoS ONEOpen Access

Ultra-processed food consumption and the risk of overweight and obesity in adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis

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A systematic review finds high ultra-processed food consumption increases obesity risk in adolescents, suggesting dietary interventions are needed.

To review and analyze the relationship between ultra-processed food consumption and overweight or obesity in adolescents.
Conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on UPF consumption and obesity in adolescents.
Searched multiple databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, for relevant studies.
Assessed study quality using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and evaluated heterogeneity with Cochrane’s Q test.
Included 23 studies with 155,000 adolescents.
Higher UPF consumption is linked to 63% increased odds of overweight or obesity (OR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.36–1.95).
Findings indicate a strong association between UPF intake and weight gain in adolescents.

Aweke et al. (2026) studied this question.

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A systematic review finds high ultra-processed food consumption increases obesity risk in adolescents, suggesting dietary interventions are needed.