Ultra-processed food consumption in childhood and adolescence

This PhD project will investigate ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption across childhood and adolescence using large Australian National Surveys and longitudinal cohorts.

The project will examine trends in UPF intake from 1995 to 2023 across age, sex, socioeconomic and cultural groups, and evaluate associations with diet quality, nutrient adequacy and body weight.

It will also identify trajectories of UPF consumption from early childhood, examine maternal and child factors influencing these patterns, and determine how UPF intake is associated with subsequent health outcomes, including body weight.

The findings will generate critical evidence to inform dietary guidelines, public health policy, and targeted interventions aimed at reducing UPF consumption and improving life-long health.

Express your interest in this project

Email Dr Miaobing (Jazzmin) Zheng at miaobing.zheng@unsw.edu.au with a copy of your CV and your academic transcripts. If accepted, you will need to apply for admission to UNSW.