FoodSEqual Food Study
The FoodSEqual Food Study aims to understand what people eat and how their diet affects their health, particularly in communities that haven't been fully included in past health surveys. Diet plays a big role in our health, but we don't have enough up-to-date information from all parts of our society. This project wants to look at why people make certain food choices and how affordable healthy food can become more common. Researchers will use different ways to check what people eat, including looking at special markers in the body. The goal is to help create better food options and policies so that everyone has access to healthy, appealing, and affordable food.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called the FoodSEqual Food Study, is trying to understand more about what people eat and how it affects their health. It's especially focused on communities that might be facing harder times, as their voices and experiences haven't always been heard in past health surveys. We know that what we eat has a big impact on our overall health, but there isn't enough recent information about the eating habits in all communities across the UK.
The main idea behind this project is to figure out what influences the food choices people make. Researchers will be looking at this in several ways, including using special tests to see what nutrients (good things from food) are in people's bodies. The study is part of a bigger national project that aims to give people in diverse communities more say and more choice over the food they eat. The ultimate goal is to work together to create new food products, better ways to get food to people, and new policies that make healthy, tasty, affordable, and sustainable food available to everyone.
By gathering this important information, the FoodSEqual project hopes to help improve health for everyone. Understanding the link between diet, health, and how affordable food is, is a key part of making sure that everyone has the chance to eat well and live a healthier life.
Key takeaways
- This study focuses on understanding diet and health in diverse communities.
- It aims to find out what influences people's food choices.
- The research helps develop better access to affordable, healthy food for everyone.
- Participants must be 18 years or older and able to give consent.
- The study uses different methods, including special tests, to assess diet.
- It's part of a larger national effort to improve food systems in the UK.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you must be 18 years old or older. There is no upper age limit, meaning people of any adult age can participate if they meet the other conditions.
The main requirement is that you must be able to understand what the study involves and be able to give your clear permission to take part. This means you need to be able to communicate and make your own decisions about joining the study.
If you are unable to understand the study information or give your consent, then you would unfortunately not be able to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Can you understand information about the study?
- Are you able to clearly say 'yes' or 'no' to joining the study?
- Do you feel comfortable asking questions if you don't understand something?
What does participation involve?
The information provided in the brief and detailed summaries does not specify the exact details of what taking part will involve in terms of visits, assessments, medication, or the total duration of participation. It does mention that researchers will use a combination of ways to assess what people eat, including looking at 'nutritional biomarkers,' which usually means checks like blood or urine tests. To get a full picture of what your involvement would look like, including how many visits you'd need to make, what kinds of tests or questionnaires would be involved, and how long the study would last, you would need to speak directly with the study team.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of ReadingVerified postcodeReading, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is a 'disadvantaged community' in this study?
This study broadly refers to communities that may face challenges, such as lower income or other difficult circumstances, which can affect access to healthy food.
What are 'nutritional biomarkers'?
These are special markers, often found in blood or urine, that can tell scientists about the nutrients you've been eating and how your body uses them.
Will I get personalised diet advice?
The study aims to understand diet patterns in groups rather than provide individual diet advice. However, you will learn more about your own dietary intake through the assessments.
Who is funding this research?
The study is part of a larger project funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), a government body that supports science and research in the UK.
Is my personal information kept private?
In any reputable study, your personal information is kept confidential and handled according to strict privacy rules. You should always ask the study team for details on how your data will be protected.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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