The latest research suggests that the Irish nation picked up some bad eating habits during their boom years. When the Celtic Tiger was in bloom, Irish people were eating unhealthy meals.

Research, using the most recently available Central Statistics Office household budget survey data, examined food expenditure trends during the past decade of prosperity.

Pamela Murphy, head researcher, found that despite a dramatic increase in average household disposable income, consumers spent more on greasy, fatty foods and sweets during the Celtic Tiger years. The statistics also revealed a decline in consumer spending on healthier products such as meat, eggs and fish.

Perhaps the most disappointing findings of the research is the fact that despite elaborate widespread campaigns to encourage fruit and vegetable consumption, spending in this category failed to significantly increase over the decade.

However, a drastic drop in income for average Irish families in the last two years has resulted in consumers improving their eating habits as they become more frugal.