Consumption of ultra-processed foods in Iceland – Findings from the Icelandic National Dietary Survey 2019-2021

-Automatic translation

The scientific article examined the relationship between ultra-processed foods, according to the Nova classification system, and dietary quality in relation to dietary recommendations from the Directorate of Health. The relationship between processed food and greenhouse gas emissions was also explored. The first author of the article is Steina Gunnarsdóttir, a PhD student in health sciences at the University of Iceland.

Main results

• On average, 45% of the energy (calories) came from processed foods. The group that consumed the most processed foods obtained approximately 64% of their calories from these foods.

• Some of the recommended foods include processed foods such as whole-grain bread and certain dairy products. However, only 4% of the participants' total energy intake came from processed foods that are advised to be included in a healthy diet.

• The group that consumed the least processed foods ate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and generally maintained healthier eating habits.

• The median greenhouse gas emissions from processed food accounted for 21% of total emissions. However, it is important to remember that improving production efficiency can reduce greenhouse gases, and when considering processed food, other environmental impacts like water use and biodiversity must also be taken into account.

• Only 1% of total greenhouse gas emissions can be attributed to processed foods that are recommended to be consumed. This shows that most of the greenhouse gases emitted during the production of processed foods eaten in Iceland come from foods such as processed meat, ice cream, sweets, snacks, soft drinks, and energy drinks. If these foods are eaten in large amounts, it not only harms health but also has negative environmental effects.

The results highlight opportunities to improve health and reduce environmental impact by cutting down on ultra-processed foods like processed meats, ice cream, sweets, snacks, as well as soft drinks and energy drinks. Conversely, we should focus more on consuming plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and wholegrain products, which are recommended in the food-based dietary recommendations, among other things.

It is important that, for instance, schools and sports facilities carefully review the products available to children and young people. Consideration should also be given to the marketing of ultra-processed food products targeting children and young people. Recently, Norway agreed to ban the marketing of such products to children and young people.

The study, which analysed data on Icelanders' diets from 2019 to 2021, shows that Icelanders consume a significant amount of processed foods. These foods often have a long shelf life, are convenient and tasty, but tend to be high in energy and low in nutrients. When seeking healthier options, it might be helpful to look for products labelled with the Keyhole, including, among other things, whole fruits and vegetables. You can find good ideas for quick and healthy recipes on the website Gott og einfalt (Icelandic).

More information
Jóhanna Eyrún Torfadóttir and Hólmfríður Þorgeirsdóttir, project managers in nutrition