Ultra-processed food intake is associated with a displacement of the traditional diet of Costa Rican adolescents

Ultra-processed food intake accounted for 35.9% of the total energy intake among Costa Rican adolescents.

• Intake of ultra-processed foods was higher on weekdays compared to weekends.
• Female adolescents consumed more ultra-processed foods than males.
• Higher socioeconomic status and urban living were associated with greater ultra-processed food intake.
• Ultra-processed foods were primarily consumed as snacks, especially in the morning and afternoon.
• A 10-percentage-point increase in ultra-processed food energy contribution was linked to a -0.44 lower score on the Traditional Costa Rica Adolescents Diet Score.
• Increased ultra-processed food consumption was associated with lower intake of fiber and beneficial micronutrients, while being linked to higher intake of added sugars and trans fats.

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