Eating Well Choosing Better Tracker Survey Wave 8 2022

The Eating Well Choosing Better (EWCB) tracker survey provides annual insights into consumer attitudes and behaviours related to healthy eating in Northern Ireland. Delivered by Ipsos on behalf of the Food Standards Agency (FSA), Wave 8 of the survey (17 September–19 November 2022) examined consumer understanding of healthy eating, use of nutritional information, engagement with healthier options, and awareness of recommended calorie intake. Findings showed strong recognition of traffic light nutrition labels (91%) and a high level of reported understanding (85%). Almost two‑thirds of consumers (62%) stated they choose foods with healthier traffic‑light colours most of the time. Support for product reformulation remained robust, with around half of participants indicating they would be more likely to purchase foods reduced in saturated fat, sugar, or salt. However, participants reported difficulty choosing healthier options across a range of out‑of‑home settings, particularly takeaways, fast‑food outlets, and leisure venues. Knowledge of recommended daily calorie intake was low, especially among men. Differences across demographic groups indicated that males and those in lower socioeconomic groups engage less with nutritional information and healthier choices. These results highlight ongoing challenges and opportunities for improving consumer engagement with healthier food options in Northern Ireland.