WIREDGOV

The Food Standards Agency in Northern Ireland has launched Caloriewise, a six-month pilot scheme in which local food businesses will display calorie information on menus for the first time. Caloriewise will help consumers make more informed choices when eating out.

Research published by the FSA in March 2011, revealed that there is a lack of public knowledge of the recommended calorie intake for maintaining a healthy weight. Maria Jennings, Head of Dietary Health at the FSA in Northern Ireland, said: ‘The Caloriewise scheme is designed to get people thinking a bit more about their overall calorie intake in a day and encouraging them to make informed choices to keep the calories in check. Food outlets will not only display calorie content for individual items and portions, but will also provide a clear reminder of the recommended daily intake on posters and leaflets.’

Speaking at the launch of the scheme, Health Minister Edwin Poots MLA, said: ‘Protecting public health is my department’s number one priority. I congratulate the Food Standards Agency and the participating local organisations who are working in partnership to deliver real benefits for consumers. I would urge other businesses to pick up this mantle and work with the FSA to have a positive impact on your customers’ health.’

The Caloriewise pilot, which is being trialled by eight local businesses, will run from 1 May to 31 October 2012.