Online information Vhi Healthcare has set up a food factfinder on its website www.vhi.ie for the low-down on the most common foods and drinks.
On the site, foods are listed alphabetically under the following headings: fruit and vegetables; nuts; desserts, biscuits and snacks; fish and meat; dairy products; drinks; bread, cereal and pasta. Food items not included on the lists can be checked out by emailing the Vhi Healthcare dietician on an 'Ask the Experts' page.
In addition, individual food fact sheets can be downloaded so consumers have detail to hand while on holiday, dining out or simply shopping.
Nuala Collins, Vhi Healthcare dietician, said: "With larger portions on offer, people need to be mindful of the calorie and fat values of their meals. To make a real difference to your weight, you should include more fruit and vegetables, cut back calories and exercise more.
See: www.vhi.ie/topic/diet/foodfactfinder/index.jsp for more details