Research

Building sustainability into national healthy eating guidelines

Review of international practice and practical implications for policy.

What is the cost of a healthy food basket in Northern Ireland in 2022?

This research updates the cost of a Minimum Essential Food Basket, for four household types, in Northern Ireland to 2022. 

What is the cost of a healthy food basket in Ireland in 2022?

This report presents the cost of a minimum essential food basket for six household types adjusted to reflect food costs in 2022.

Fiscal and pricing policies related to food and non-alcoholic drinks

safefood commissioned this review of the evidence on fiscal and pricing strategies for food and non-alcoholic drinks to identify gaps in knowledge and set out policy recommendations relevant to the island of Ireland. 

A compendium of food statistics on the island of Ireland 2023

safefood commissioned this project to generate a compendium of the most up-to-date food chain statistics for both the Republic and Northern Ireland. 

Portion control tools - do they work in practice?

Eating large portions of certain foods has been linked with consuming too much energy and with weight gain. However, there is little awareness of what constitutes an appropriate portion size. This research was commissioned by safefood to test the acceptability of using a 200ml marked measuring cup in the family setting on the island of Ireland.

Food supplements: Exploring our reasons for taking them

Most people get enough vitamins and minerals from their diet, yet 30% of people on the island of Ireland report taking food supplements. This reseach examined why people are taking these supplements to help inform guidance to the public.

Preprepared convenience foods and associated food safety risks

The aim of this research was to collect data on the types of ready-made, prepacked “convenience foods” available in retailers and businesses across the island and to assess the behaviours and understanding of people who consume these foods.

Secondary analysis of dietary survey data of children’s diets on the island of Ireland

The role of snacking and treat foods in the diets of children aged 2-12 years on the island of Ireland

Plant-based dairy alternatives: Products Available in Supermarkets on the Island of Ireland, and Consumer Behaviours and Perceptions

This report provides an overview of the different types and the nutritional content of plant-based dairy alternatives to milk, cheese and yogurt, available online from a range of supermarkets on the island of Ireland.