What type of study is this?

This is a Cross-Sectional Study study.

What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to explore the interplay of individual and environmental factors affecting ultra-processed food consumption among adolescents in Brazil.

December 10, 2025Open Access

Individual and environmental factors affect the consumption of ultra-processed foods among Brazilian adolescents: results from the National School Health Survey

Key Points

This research aims to explore the interplay of individual and environmental factors affecting ultra-processed food consumption among adolescents in Brazil.
Population-based cross-sectional study using data from the 2019 National School Health Survey.
Sample consisted of 100,028 adolescents aged 13-17 from public and private schools in Brazil.
Poisson regression was employed to assess prevalence ratios associated with various factors.
High ultra-processed food consumption linked to younger age, regular breakfast, and screen time during meals.
Frequent purchases of ultra-processed foods at school were significant factors.
Inverse associations found with high body satisfaction and attending private school.

Abstract

Abstract This population-based cross-sectional study investigated the complex interplay of factors influencing high ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption among Brazilian adolescents using a hierarchical socioecological model. Data from 100,028 adolescents (13-17 years) enrolled in public and private schools nationwide were collected via self-administered questionnaires from the 2019 National School Health Survey. High UPF consumption was defined as ≥7 subgroups consumed on the previous day based on the NOVA classification. Poisson regression adjusted for complex sampling and hierarchical structure identified Prevalence Ratios (PR) for associated factors. High UPF consumption was significantly associated with younger age (PR=1.22; 95%CI 1.11-1.34), regular breakfast consumption (PR=1.32; 95%CI 1.23-1.42), regular screen time during meals (PR=1.36; 95%CI 1.27-1.45), frequent UPF purchases at and around school (PR for canteen: 1.57; 95%CI 1.43-1.72; street vendors: 1.71; 95%CI 1.55-1.89), higher maternal education (PR 1.23, 95% CI 1.12-1.36), and lower parental supervision (PR 1.34, 95% CI 1.11-1.62). Living in the South (PR 1.50, 95% CI 1.34-1.69), Southeast (PR 1.30, 95% CI 1.17-1.44) and Midwest regions (PR 1.21, 95% CI 1.09-1.34) also correlated with higher consumption. Conversely, high body satisfaction and attending private school showed an inverse association. These findings underscore the intricate, multilevel influences on UPF consumption among Brazilian adolescents. Integrated interventions, spanning schools, family environments, and public policies, are crucial for promoting healthier eating habits and preventing obesity in this vulnerable population.

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