Text box 1. Contributions to the literature
• Ultra-processed foods are increasingly represented in the food environment of low- and middle-income countries, including Senegal, but there is still a significant lack of research to assess their consumption. So, this research will help to address an important and highly relevant nutritional concern, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
• The validated Nova-UPF screener will enhance understanding of dietary habits in Senegal, helping targeted public health policies to improve better nutrition and prevent diet-related diseases.
• The validation and use of this tool in other countries will allow international comparisons of dietary habits and a better understanding of cultural and geographical differences in food consumption habits and their implications for public health.
• The need of cheap and easy-to-apply tools to monitor the UPF intake, and the association between UPF intake and NCD development.