National Diet and Nutrition Survey

A rolling snapshot of the diet and nutrition status of the UK population

Researcher |

About this study

The National Diet and Nutrition Survey aims to provide a snapshot of the diet and nutrition status of the UK population.

The NDNS rolling programme of surveys is jointly funded by the Department of Health in England and the UK Food Standards Agency. It was commissioned to track and respond more quickly to trends. A consortium led by NatCen has been running the rolling programme since its launch in 2007.

The Northern Ireland Information, Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) is our research partner in Northern Ireland.

Latest results available

Results from 2009/10 have now been published and are available from the Department for Health's website. A summary of the key findings is provided here.

Previous results from 2008/9 are avalable from the Department for Health's website.

The study will interview around 1,600 people a year. Adults and children aged 18 months and above are being recruited from England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The main aims of the NDNS survey are:

to provide annual data about the nation's dietary intake and nutritional status,

to estimate the proportion of individuals with compromised nutritional status, and

to estimate the proportions attaining recommended intakes.

Potential policy impact

NDNS results are used by the Government to develop policy and monitor progress on diet and nutrition objectives of UK Health Departments, for example those set out in the Healthy Lives Healthy People White Paper in England. NDNS data are critical to underpinning the Government's work to protect consumer safety and promote healthy diets. Examples include salt and saturated fat intake reduction work.

The study will be used to monitor progress towards Government targets on healthy eating.

Our methods

The main components of the study are: