Ultra-Processed Foods in University Students: Implementing Nutri-Score to Make Healthy Choices

Going to university means that many students assume, for the first time, responsibilities associated with living outside the family group, such as controlling eating habits. A survey was conducted among 161 university students in order to find out their perceptions regarding their type of diet, their knowledge of nutrition issues, their consumption of ultra-processed foods, and to evaluate the Nutri-Score labeling system as an aid in choosing healthier products. This is a cross-sectional observational study. Participants who have the perception of following a healthy diet show a more adequate BMI, regularly practice sports and read labels (nutritional information, expiration date, and ingredients). In general, the university students surveyed do not read the labels (64%) and find it difficult to identify the degree of wholesomeness of what they consume. Furthermore, they buy products based on the external information on the packaging (72%). The consumption of ultra-processed products, such as alcohol and soft drinks, is higher in those who live outside their family homes. The Nutri-Score labeling system is perceived as an aid for better product choice (89%).