Cad Saude Publica. 2026 Jan 9;41(12):e00012225. doi: 10.1590/0102-311XPT012225. eCollection 2026.
ABSTRACT
The aim of the present study was to assess generational differences in food consumption among Brazilian adults born between 1928 and 1988. Data from the 2008-2009 (n = 25,324) and 2017-2018 (n = 36,480) Brazilian National Dietary Surveys were analyzed. Foods were classified according to the degree of processing using the NOVA classification. Differences in consumption between generations were assessed by comparing individuals in the same age group in each survey. To assess the effect of income on the consumption of ultra-processed foods, a linear regression model was developed for each income quartile. A reduction in total calorie intake was found in younger generations in both sexes and all age groups. In 2017-2018, younger generations (20 to 39 years of age) with lower income levels consumed a greater frequency of ultra-processed foods compared to older generations. The percentage contribution of each NOVA classification group to total caloric intake was similar across generations. The analyses demonstrated generational differences in food consumption among Brazilian adults born between 1928 and 1988. Among individuals 20 to 39 years of age, those belonging to younger generations had a greater consumption of ultra-processed foods compared to older generations, but only among lower income groups.
PMID:41538696 | DOI:10.1590/0102-311XPT012225
