Ultra-processed food consumption in Scotland: a nationally representative analysis of sociodemographic patterns and dietary contributions

Objective:

To quantify ultra-processed food (UPF) intake in Scotland, identify key contributing food groups and examine sociodemographic associations using nationally representative data.

Design:

Cross-sectional analysis of 2021 Scottish Health Survey data using 2-d dietary recalls via Intake24 classified by NOVA. UPF intake was calculated as percentage of total energy intake (%TEI) and grams per day (g/d). Multivariable linear regression assessed associations with sex, age, ethnicity, income, socio-economic classification, highest educational qualification, urban–rural location, region and Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) quintiles.

Setting:

Nationally representative sample of Scottish households.

Participants:

Individuals aged 16 years or over with complete dietary and sociodemographic data (n 2645).

Results:

Mean energy intake was 1637·8 kcal/d (95 % CI 1615·8, 1659·8). Mean UPF consumption was 666·9 g/d (95 % CI 647·9, 685·9), amounting to 919·9 kcal/d (95 % CI 901·1, 938·6), representing 55·4 % of TEI (95 % CI 54·7, 56·2) and 28·2 % of total food weight. The main contributors to UPF intake were cereal products (244·8 kcal/d, 27·0 % of UPF kcal), confectionery (170·3 kcal/d, 17·9 %) and meats (153·6 kcal/d, 16·2 %). Sandwiches (99·9 % UPF), salty snacks (94·1 %) and dietary supplements (90·5 %) showed highest UPF proportions by food groups. Adjusted analyses revealed greater UPF consumption (%TEI) among males (β = −3·3, P < 0·001), younger adults (β = −2·8 per decade, P < 0·001), White participants (β = +12·9 v. non-White, P < 0·001) and lower SIMD quintile (β = −1·8 per quintile, P < 0·001). Similar patterns emerged for absolute intake (g/d).

Conclusions:

UPF dominates Scotland’s diet, with inequitable distribution across sociodemographic groups. Policy actions – such as adopting NOVA in dietary guidelines and restricting UPF marketing – are urgently needed to address this public health crisis.