The Influence of Ultraprocessed Food Consumption on Energy Intake in Emerging Adulthood: A Controlled Feeding Trial
Authors' conclusion
Late adolescents may be susceptible to increased EI following a UPF diet. Future trials are warranted to evaluate this possibility.
Study context
- Population
- Individuals aged 18–25; mean age 22 ± 2 years, mean BMI 24 ± 3 kg/m²crossover
- Participants
- 27 individuals
- Comparison
- 81% ultraprocessed foods (UPF) diet vs 0% UPF diet for 14 days each
- Primary endpoint
- Ad libitum energy intake (EI) and food selection at a buffet meal
- Follow-up
- After each 14-day diet
Methodological detailsrandomized, proof-of-concept, controlled feeding, 4-week washout, Diet compliance ≈99% overall, Diets matched for macronutrients, fiber, added sugar, diet quality and energy density
- Randomized
- Proof-of-concept
- Controlled feeding
- 4-week washout
- Diet compliance ≈99% overall
- Diets matched for macronutrients, fiber, added sugar, diet quality and energy density
Primary result
As reported in the abstract
Buffet meal total kcal, grams, UPF and non-UPF consumption (full sample)
- No effect of diet condition on meal total kcal or grams consumed or UPF or non-UPF consumption
- UPF vs non-UPF: all p > 0.05
Further findings
| Outcome | Cohen's d | P value |
|---|---|---|
| Total EI by age subgroup (exploratory)UPF vs non-UPF · interaction between diet and age · exploratory age subgroup analysis | P < 0.001 for diet × age interaction | |
| Total EI by age subgroup (exploratory)UPF vs non-UPF · late adolescents (18-21): total EI increased after UPF diet · exploratory age subgroup analysis | 0.79 | P = 0.03 |
Total energy intake (EI) by age subgroup (exploratory)
- Young adults (22-25): no increase in total EI after UPF diet
Original publication
The Influence of Ultraprocessed Food Consumption on Energy Intake in Emerging Adulthood: A Controlled Feeding Trial. Obesity (Silver Spring). Published 19 November 2025. doi:10.
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