Ultra-Processed Foods Marketed in Türkiye: An Analysis of Nutritional Quality and Packaging Sustainability.

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional profile and packaging recycling status of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) sold in chain markets across Türkiye. In this regard, the nutritional quality and recyclability status of the packages of UPFs, as defined by NOVA, sold in five major supermarket chains across Türkiye were examined. The energy and nutrient content displayed on UPF labels were analysed, and their nutritional profiles considered using the Nutri-Score algorithm. The study also documented the frequency of recycling symbols on the packaging. Of the 1365 UPFs examined across 13 categories, 61.6% were identified as having an unhealthy nutritional profile (Nutri-Score Grades D and E), whereas only 16% were classified as healthy (Grades A and B). Categories predominantly containing unhealthy products included milk and dairy, sauces and dressings, frozen and dehydrated meals, processed meats, along with various snacks and desserts like salty and sweet snacks, candies, chocolates and ice cream. Notably, candies, chocolates, and salty and sweet snacks were identified as the most energy-dense UPF categories. In terms of packaging, 84.4% of UPFs used at least one recycling symbol, 55.3% of these used plastic material and 38.2% used the Green Dot symbol. The results of the study may guide UPF nutrient profile reformulations and contribute to epidemiological studies analysing the relationship between UPF consumption and public health. Furthermore, these results highlight the necessity for more defined national regulations on the recycling of food packaging within the context of food system sustainability.