Exposure to Ultra-Processed Foods in a University Setting in Senegal: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study among Students at Gaston Berger University in 2026

Abstract

Introduction: The ongoing nutrition transition in sub-Saharan Africa is accompanied by increasing penetration of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which is particularly concerning among young adults in university settings. However, evidence on UPF exposure in the Senegalese context remains limited. Aim: This study aimed to assess exposure to ultra-processed foods and its impact on the dietary habits of UGB students in 2026. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and April 2026 among 400 students from Gaston Berger University, who were selected through proportionate stratified random sampling. Exposure to UPFs was assessed using a NOVA-based score dichotomised at the median value (cut-off = 13). Data were collected through an electronic questionnaire administered via ODK and analysed using JAMOVI software. Results: The mean age of participants was 22.0 ± 2.5 years, with an approximately balanced sex distribution (50.2% male). Overall, 64.2% of students reported consuming three meals per day. Nevertheless, 55.5% reported skipping at least one daily meal, predominantly breakfast (70.3%), while 74.5% reported snacking between meals. In addition, 40.2% perceived their diet as unbalanced, and 36.2% believed that they consumed excessive amounts of industrially processed foods. In this study, 42.3% of students exhibited high exposure to UPFs (NOVA score > 13). Industrial sauces were the most commonly consumed UPFs (100%), followed by fast food (85.2%) and processed meat products (72%). Conclusion: Exposure to ultra-processed foods is substantial among students at Gaston Berger University, alongside widespread unhealthy eating behaviours. These findings highlight the need for targeted public health interventions within university settings.