Changes in food patterns over a 10-year period in the UK adult population; findings from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey

Abstract

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in adults is increasing worldwide. Food portion size (PS) is an important environmental determinant of energy intake (EI) and may contribute to the obesity epidemic. However, UK evidence on the typical PS of commonly consumed foods in adults and how these may have changed over time is limited. Using combined data from Years 1-4 (2008/9-2011/12) and Years 9-11 (2016/17-2018/19) of the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS), this study examined trends in the PS of commonly consumed food groups over the last decade among UK adults. Significant increases in both consumption frequency and PS were observed for pasta, rice & pizza, eggs, oils & spreads, vegetables, fruits, nuts & seeds, and low-calorie carbonated/soft drinks (all p≤0.005). In contrast, bread, potato & potato products, condiments, and fruit juice & smoothies showed significant decreases in both frequency and PS (all p≤0.032). Divergent patterns were also evident: red meat showed increased frequency but reduced PS, while white meat and fish increased in frequency without significant changes in PS. Changes in PS alone were identified for milk and milk products, processed meat, alcoholic drinks, and total beverages.

Although fibre intake increased, recommendations are still not being met. There was no clear evidence that overweight or obese individuals consumed greater PS than those with normal weight. These findings highlight changes in food patterns among UK adults over the past decade and the importance of continued monitoring.