Diet and nutrition

What RIVM does

RIVM researches the relationship between diet and health. We conduct regular surveys to find out what people in the Netherlands are eating; what is the typical Dutch diet? We also determine what nutrients and other substances can be found in food, and we assess the safety of new foods and food products.
RIVM is actively engaged in epidemiological research. This involves examining the influence of diet on the development of conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and overweight. To determine the precise effects, RIVM develops models which reveal the health gains and cost effectiveness of interventions. We also assess the veracity of manufacturers’ claims with regard to the beneficial effects of their food products and supplements. Doing so will also reveal any potentially adverse effects.

Publications

The findings of all RIVM’s research into diet and nutrition are published as reports or scientific articles. We devote attention to both the national and the international significance of our results. Our research is commissioned by national bodies such as the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) and the Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (VWA), as well as by international organizations such as the WHO and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Our many research partners include national and international universities, research institutes, government authorities and the WHO.