SLAN 2007: Survey of Lifestyle, Attitudes and Nutrition in Ireland. Dietary Habits of the Irish Population

The main SLÁN 2007 survey was conducted through face-to-face interviews. There were two sub-group studies involving (i) measurement of height, weight and waist circumference (subgroup of younger respondents) and (ii) a detailed physical examination (sub-group of older respondents). The overall aim was to provide nationally representative data on the general health, health behaviours and health service use of adults living in Ireland. The two sub-group studies aimed to provide vital information regarding the health risk profiles of younger and older adults, and at the same time offer the first opportunity to compare measured and self-reported anthropometric data from the general Irish population. This report presents the detailed diet and nutrition findings from SLÁN 2007, analysed in accordance with current Irish dietary guidelines. Identification of dietary behaviours and dietary patterns in the Irish population at national level is essential to enhance our understanding of the relationships between diet and disease, and to monitor changes over time. As with previous SLÁN surveys, these patterns were assessed using a comprehensive Food Frequency Questionnaire adapted for use in the Irish population. Due to the changing nature of Irish society, additional information relating to meal patterns, snacking and food consumption outside the home were also included in the main survey. The SLÁN 2007 survey was funded by the Health Promotion Policy Unit of the Department of Health and Children. The survey and analyses were carried out by the SLÁN 2007 Consortium, consisting of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), University College, Cork (UCC), the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG) and the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI).