Convergent validity and invariance analysis of a scale to measure adherence to eating practices recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population

ABSTRACT: Objective: To analyze the convergent validity and invariance of a scale to measure adherence eating practices recommended by Dietary Guidelines for Brazilian Population. Methods: A subsample (n=1309) NutriNet-Brasil cohort (self-filled web-based study) answered 24-items based on Guide, as well socioeconomic dietary questionnaires. The score in (eGuia) was compared Spearman’s correlation with scores fresh minimally processed foods (eG1) ultra-processed (eG4) consumption, both composed average number food items consumed three random days. Correlations’ direction strength were observed infer validity. multi-group confirmatory factor analysis used assess at configural, factorial metric levels, between subgroups sex (men/women), age (≤37/>37, being 37 median) years schooling (≤11/>11). model invariant when goodness-of-fit indices varied within acceptable ranges previous level. Results: Participants 39 old (sd=13.7), 53% women 69% had more than 11 education. Correlations eGuia eG1, eG4 0.56 -0.51 (p<0.001), respectively. In all sociodemographic groups, ranges. Conclusion: correlations show that measured are aligned healthy showing its this sample, same dimensions, showed equivalence items’ loadings, generated comparable sex, age,