UK Toddlers Consume Nearly Half Their Calories from Ultra-Processed Foods, Study Reveals

Research indicates that early dietary habits involving ultra-processed foods may lead to long-term health issues.

Toddlers in the UK obtain 47% of their calories from ultra-processed foods, which increases to 59% by the age of seven.
The study, conducted by University College London, analyzed data from 2,591 children born in 2007 and 2008.
Common ultra-processed foods for toddlers include flavored yogurts and wholegrain cereals, which are often perceived as healthy.
Children consuming the most ultra-processed foods at 21 months were 9.4 times more likely to be high consumers at age seven.
Researchers call for policies to reduce ultra-processed food consumption, including food labeling and subsidies for healthier options.