The PortFIR program – Portuguese Platform Food Information – inspired by the European network EuroFIR (European Food Information Resource) – aims at the implementation of Portuguese networks for sharing knowledge on food security and nutrition and the creation of a portal which includes sustainable databases and quality recognized on Food Composition, Food Contamination and Food Consumption.

The PortFIR program includes three areas of activity:

  • Sharing knowledge through networks, which bring together in working groups to prepare guidance documents;
  • Food information Management, the INSA responsibility, consisting in the collection, standardization, validation and compilation of data from various existing sources in the country (data providers) in the areas of composition and chemical and microbiological contamination of food and food consumption;
  • Review and provide information through PortFIR website.

This program is developed in three phases:

  • Implementation of knowledge sharing networks and computer Management System of Food Information Network;
  • Systematic collection, standardization and comprehensive data validation from various areas for loading of databases;
  • Routine, with regular data collection, analysis and provision thereof with periodic reporting (eg. Table of Food Composition).

With the PortFIR initiative three networks were born that are designed to optimize the use of national resources, creating a system for updating and maintaining sustainable national databases:

  • Portuguese Network on Food Composition (RPCA)
  • Portuguese Network of Microbiological Food Information (RPIMA)
  • Portuguese Network of Chemical Contamination of Food (RPCQA)

The invitation to participate in networks is constant so please disclosure of participation in networks to any colleague/entity considers appropriate.

The functionality of the networks is ensured by Working Groups either transverse (PortFIR) to all networks, whether geared to the specific needs of each desktop (or RPCA RPIMA). The PortFIR Working Groups meet regularly and present their work in Annual Meeting.

For registration in the Working Groups PortFIR, RPCA or RPIMA it must create an account and fill out the forms.

This program—inspired by the European network EuroFIR (European Food Information Resource)—is coordinated by the Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA), IP and was created in 2008 in partnership with GS1 Portugal. It has the support of governmental and private organizations in the health, agriculture, and economy sectors.