Time trend (2008-2016) of food consumption based on the degree of food processing in United Kingdom

Abstract

Abstract Background Ultra-processed foods have been rapidly displacing traditional dietary patterns based on unprocessed and minimally processed foods. We assessed the time trend of food consumption based on the degree and purpose of food processing in United Kingdom from 2008 to 2016. Methods Cross-sectional data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey were analysed. Food items collected using a 4-day food diary were classified according to the NOVA system. Linear regression models were used to estimate linear trend of food consumption across years, adjusted for sex, social class occupation, age and region. Results From the 2008 to 2016, the dietary contribution of processed culinary ingredients increased from 4.1% to 4.8% (p for trend<0.001), while the contribution of processed foods decreased from 9.5% to 8.4% (p for trend=0.001), respectively. The contribution of unprocessed or minimally processed foods (from 30.4% in 2008 to 30.2% in 2016; p for trend=0.462) and ultra-processed foods (from 56.0% to 56.6%, respectively; p for trend=0.194) across survey years has not appreciably changed. Regarding the subgroups, butter and plain oil (Processed culinary ingredients) increased over time, while beer, food preserved and bread (processed food) decreased. Among ultra-processed foods, pre-prepared meals, biscuits and industrial desserts increased, while reconstituted meat and margarine decreased. Among unprocessed or minimally processed foods, poultry, cereals, eggs and legumes increased, while roots, red meat and fresh fruit juice decreased. Conclusions We observed substantial changes in the consumption of processed food and processed culinary ingredients over time. The consumption of ultra-processed food remained unchanged over time, and still account for more than half of total calorie intake in UK. Despite this, substantial changes in some subgroups including ultra-processed, were observed for the four NOVA groups. Funding CAPES and FAPESP 2016/14302-7. Key messages The consumption of ultra-processed food remained unchanged over time, and still account for more than half of total calorie intake in UK. Actions to mitigate high consumption ultra-processed foods are necessary given that these foods have been strongly associated with obesity and diet-related chronic diseases.