This study investigates the patterns of ultra-processed food consumption and its relationship with eating behaviors among adolescents before and after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We utilized raw data from the 7th and 8th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (2018–2021), which included 1,122 adolescents aged 12 to 18 — 640 prior to the pandemic and 482 post-pandemic. Participants were categorized based on variables such as sex, body mass index (BMI), and NOVA food intake classification. Utilizing the NOVA food classification system, we reclassified food codes derived from individual 24-hour dietary recall surveys and analyzed the data to reflect the characteristics of the survey population.
The key findings are as follows: Firstly, adolescents exhibiting irregular meal patterns and those who consumed meals in isolation were more inclined to consume ultra-processed foods. Secondly, during the COVID-19 period, there was a significant reduction in total energy intake and overall food consumption. Thirdly, the consumption of Group IV ultra-processed foods, particularly fast food, decreased notably during the pandemic. Fourthly, prior to COVID-19, significant differences in energy, protein, and fat intake were observed among male adolescents, while differences in energy, carbohydrates, and protein intake were noted among females. During the pandemic, significant changes were identified in fat intake for males, and in energy and carbohydrate intake for females.
This study underscores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ultra-processed food consumption and eating behaviors among Korean adolescents, highlighting the necessity for targeted nutrition education and policy support for this group.