The Safefood Operation Transformation roadshow begins in Cork this weekend, with the emphasis on food portion sizes and physical activity.

The roadshow, which is run every year in conjunction with RTE's weight loss programme, Operation Transformation, is set to visit five locations in January and February, beginning with the Mahon Shopping Centre in Cork this Saturday (January 19).

According to Safefood, the aim of the roadshow is to get people involved in health eating and exercise ‘in a fun, interactive and engaging way'.

Safefood experts, along with dieticians from the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute, will be on hand to offer practical advice to people on topics such as calories swaps and healthy eating for long-term weight loss.

An Operation Transformation leader will also attend each event.

"The annual Safefood-sponsored Operation Transformation has really become a January landmark and our roadshow makes it all the more local. The emphasis on portion sizes and being active is key to long-term weight loss," commented Dr Cliodhna Foley-Nolan of Safefood.

With two in every three adults currently overweight in Ireland, she called on people to come to the roadshows and make a change.

"The example of the participants in the programme, their supporters and groups around the island are an inspiration in tackling what is a serious public health issue and I would encourage everyone to come along, get some really useful advice and have some fun too," she said.

The roadshows are on from 12pm to 3.30pm at the following venues:
-January 19: Mahon Shopping Centre, Cork
-January 26: Crescent Shopping Centre, Limerick
-February 2: Erneside Shopping Centre, Enniskillen
-February 9: Whitewater Shopping Centre, Newbridge
-February 16: Blanchardstown Shopping Centre, Dublin.

For more information on healthy eating, see www.safefood.eu