3455. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health whether her Department or the Food Safety Authority of Ireland monitors the consumption of ultra-processed foods in Ireland; the most recent assessment carried out of the health implications of ultra-processed food consumption for the Irish population; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56410/26]

The Department of Health does not hold any data in relation to monitoring the consumption of ultra-processed foods in Ireland. As there is no legal definition of ultra processed food, the WHO are in the process of convening an expert advisory group to develop a guideline to assist member states to promote healthier, safer and more sustainable diets as a priority through a variety of actions.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) as Ireland’s independent regulator is the central competent authority for the enforcement of food safety legislation. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) provides independent scientific advice to support European policies and legislation related to food. Advice from EFSA and FSAI informs European laws, rules and policymaking, which helps protect consumers from risks in the food chain. Regulation EC 178/2002 (General Food Law) provides the legal framework for ensuring food safety and consumer protection within the European Union (EU). The FSAI have confirmed to the Department that they do not hold any data on the consumption of ultra-processed foods in Ireland.