In Ireland, non-communicable diseases (NCD) contribute to premature death and increased suffering and disability. Unhealthy diets, particularly those high in ultra-processed food products, and obesity, are one of the primary risks factors for NCD. Policies to prevent and control NCD have yet to be developed and implemented in many European countries, including Ireland. Globally, there is compelling evidence that the main obstacle in relation to this is the influence of the food industry, also known as ‘corporate political activity’ (CPA). The aim of this project is to describe the CPA of the food industry in Ireland and to identify potential solutions to mitigate that influence.
The first objective of the project is to identify the CPA of the food industry in Ireland, through one historical study, which will use internal documents from the industry, and one study of its recent practices, using publicly available information. We will triangulate these results with interviews with key informants in Ireland. Our second objective is to evaluate the level of implementation and effectiveness of mechanisms to address and manage the CPA of the food industry in Ireland. We will conduct a document analysis and organise an online questionnaire followed by a consultation with public health experts in academia, government and civil society. Our last objective is to provide recommendations to mitigate the influence of the food industry in Ireland. This will be informed by the consultation with experts and a citizen jury.
With the results from this project, policy makers, academics and public health professionals in Ireland will be equipped to identify and counter the arguments and actions of the food industry during the development of public health policies or programmes. The project will arm them with more effective, informed solutions to counter undue influence on public health policy, research and practice.
