School-based behaviour change intervention to reduce ultra-processed food consumption among adolescents: evidence from a cluster-randomised controlled trial in India.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The global surge in ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption is a major public health challenge, particularly among adolescents. UPFs, characterised by high energy density, added sugars, fats and sodium, and low essential nutrients, are linked to poor diet quality and heightened risks of obesity, diabetes and all-cause mortality. Despite growing concerns, there is limited evidence on school-based interventions targeting UPF reduction in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like India.

Methods

A cluster-randomised controlled trial was conducted across 12 public schools in Chandigarh, India, targeting Grade 8 adolescents and their parents. The intervention was structured around the PRECEDE-PROCEED (Predisposing, Reinforcing, and Enabling Constructs in Educational

SUBMITTER: Kaur S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12815165 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature