Food texture affects calorie intake from ultra-processed foods

A new study reveals that food texture significantly impacts energy intake from ultra-processed foods, with slower eating rates leading to reduced calorie consumption. Researchers found that participants eating ultra-processed foods with textures designed to slow eating consumed an average of 369 fewer calories daily over a 14-day period. The study involved a randomized controlled trial with 41 participants. The study, presented at the NUTRITION 2025 conference, suggests that food texture can influence eating behavior and potentially help regulate energy intake without affecting appetite or satisfaction.