Feasibility and Acceptability study of the Ultra Processed Food Addiction Online Community Intervention: Liberate

Ellen Bennett^1*Deborah Lycett¹Maxine Whelan¹Erin L Bellamy²Sara Banks³Riya Patel¹

• ¹Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
• ²Public Health Collaboration UK, London, United Kingdom
• ³Queen Mary University London, London, United Kingdom

Introduction: Ultra-Processed-Food -Addiction (UPFA) is growing a popular topic in the research arena. There are calls for its classification for diagnosis as a substance use disorder and behavioural disorder. Although evidence for UPFA is increasing, effective interventions remain scarcely available. This is a feasibility and acceptability study of "Liberate", an online, peer-supported psychoeducation intervention for adults self-identifying with UPFA.Methods: A single group, pre and post mixed methods study with 6-month follow-up was used. Participants (n=86) attended a 6-week coach-led online programme which comprised educational sessions, peer-to-peer support along with a personalised abstinence or harm reduction approach to dietary changes. Quantitative data included UPFA symptom measurements (YFAS 2.0, CRAVED), mental wellbeing (WEMWBS) and anthropometrics (weight, kg and body mass index [BMI]). Acceptability was assessed qualitatively using semi-structured interviews which were then analysed thematically using the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability.Results: Recruitment and retention rates were acceptable. Statistically significant improvements were observed in UPFA symptoms (YFAS mean reduction: -3.4; 95% CI: -4.5, -2.3), CRAVED scores (-1.4; 95% CI: -1.8, -0.9), and mental wellbeing (5.4; 95% CI: 3.2, 7.6) from baseline, post-intervention and sustained at six-month follow-up. BMI and weight change also showed a statistically significant reduction, but this was clinically negligible. Thematic analysis revealed high acceptability, with participants reporting greater self-awareness, reduced impulsive eating and eating behaviours, and increased confidence in managing UPFA symptoms. They found Liberate to be a psychologically safe and nonjudgemental space, becoming aware that it was "not my fault", and developing hope of a future beyond the intervention. Peer support and education on the effects of addiction on the brain were reported as being particularly beneficial. They expressed a desire that healthcare professionals would refer to Liberate.This study finds "Liberate" an online UPFA intervention, to be a feasible and acceptable intervention. Further investigation through a randomised controlled trial would be needed to establish causality, long-term effectiveness and potential scalability.