THE IMPACT OF FOOD ADDITIVES ON YOUTH AND ADOLESCENTS

Ionela Daniela Ferțu, Gabriela Stoleriu, Caterina Nela Dumitru, Simona Steliana Tudor, Camelia Diaconu, Nicuța Manolache

DOI : 10.62610/RJOR.2025.2.17.27

ABSTRACT

The present study analyzes the dietary patterns, health behaviors, and determinants among the young and adolescent population in Romania in the context of growing global concerns regarding the impact of lifestyle on health, including obesity, poor nutrition, and excessive exposure to food additives. Through a critical review of specialized literature, this approach analyzes the eating habits of young Romanians, their perceptions of health, and the influence of various variables on the formation and perpetuation of these behaviors. Particular attention is paid to the egative impact of frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods, which contain food additives with potentially harmful effects on metabolic, neurological, and gastrointestinal health, especially among young people and adolescents at a critical stage of development. The conclusions of the study highlight the fact that, by the precautionary principle, many international public health authorities have recently initiated recommendations aimed at limiting the consumption of ultra-processed foods and promoting superior choices from a nutritional point of view, characterized by a reduced or absent content of additives, to prevent long-term risks for the younger generation.