Prevalence and spatial distribution of highly processed foods in a population-based study, and associations with socio-economic and health factors

Roxane Dumont, Viviane Richard, Noé Fellay, David De Ridder, Stephanie Schrempft, Hélène Baysson, Stéphane Joost, Silvia Stringhini, Idris Guessous, Mayssam Nehme
Prevalence and spatial distribution of highly processed food in a population-based study and associations with socio-economic and health factors, Clin Nutr ESPEN, 19 June 2026:75:103420, doi: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2026.103420.

Abstract:

Background: The consumption of highly processed foods (HPFs) is associated with adverse health effects, but their consumption at a population level remains poorly characterised. This study described the consumption of HPA across 14 food categories among adults in Geneva and identified the associated socio-economic, spatial and health determinants.

Methods: We analysed data from 3,600 adults from the Specchio population-based study in Geneva, Switzerland (March 2025). AHT consumption across 14 categories was assessed using a validated screening questionnaire, and participants were classified as high or low consumers. Associations with socio-economic factors, lifestyle habits and health were examined using multivariate logistic regression, supplemented by a spatial analysis of geographical clusters.

Results: In total, 20% of participants were high consumers of AHT. By category, high consumption was most common for fats (85%), full-fat dairy products (71%), refined products (70%), sweetened dairy products (43%) and snacks (38%). Male gender was the strongest determinant, with particularly strong associations for spirits (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 4.8; 95% CI: 3.7–6.4) and fried foods (aOR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.8–3.0). Younger age was associated with higher consumption of snacks, refined foods and ready meals, whilst financial stress and family conflicts were linked to increased consumption in certain categories. In terms of health, high consumption of AHT was associated with poorer cardiometabolic outcomes, notably obesity and diabetes, with particularly strong associations for ready-to-eat meals and sugary drinks. Spatial analysis revealed distinct patterns across categories, with no geographical clustering for overall consumption.

Conclusions: One in five adults has a high intake of AHT, with distinct patterns across food categories and demographic characteristics. Male gender, younger age, financial stress and family conflicts are the main risk factors, particularly for ready-to-eat meals, sugary drinks, fried foods and processed meats. These findings support the development of prevention strategies targeted at specific categories of AHT in at-risk populations, which may be more effective than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Link to the article in English

This text was automatically translated from French using artificial intelligence