Food choices of 9‐17‐ year olds in Northern Ireland – influences and challenges

Few studies have concentrated on the food choices of young people and the potential influences, yet the food choices established in these early years can determine the diet and quality of health in later life. This study investigates the diet and food choices of 9‐17‐year olds in Northern Ireland and considers the potential effects of age, gender and socio‐economic grouping. A range of research methods was implemented including observations, questionnaires and diet based case studies. The observations, in five schools, indicated the types of foods being chosen whilst the questionnaires further investigated this initial information along with other factors, to obtain more detailed data. A total of 764 questionnaires were administered to young people and 516 to parents to facilitate comparison. In‐depth diet based case studies also took place evaluating the diets of 14 young people. The research indicated that this group have a diet which continues to cause concern.