Research

Communicating food poverty on the island of Ireland

The overall aim of the research was to investigate how the media portrays food poverty, and to explore public, policy and key stakeholder perceptions of food poverty.

Smart devices in the kitchen

Consumers’ use of smart devices while preparing food in the domestic kitchen on the island of Ireland.

Mycotoxin control in cereals: safeguarding food

Mycotoxins are a threat to cereal production worldwide, including oats and barley. This research looked at the prevalence of certain mycotoxins and current approaches to their measurement and control.

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.