Mash Direct Takes Major Stand Against Food Poverty in Northern Ireland

At Mash Direct, supporting our local communities is at the heart of everything we do. As a Northern Ireland–based food producer, we believe everyone should have access to nutritious, wholesome food, especially at a time when food poverty is on the rise. 

Over the past year, we’ve donated the equivalent of 265,000 portions of prepared vegetables to help tackle food poverty across Northern Ireland. Our support has reached foodbanks, charities, community organisations, and families during a period of unprecedented demand. 

Research from the Trussell Trust shows that 1 in 5 households (21%) in Northern Ireland, around 520,000 people have experienced food insecurity since 2024. For many, this means skipping meals, reducing portion sizes or going hungry due to financial pressure, with many struggling without accessing formal support. 

A large part of our donations is delivered through FareShare NI, helping ensure nutritious vegetables reach the people who need them most. In 2025 alone, we provided the equivalent of 30,600 portions of vegetables to FareShare NI, supporting 87 local charities. Alongside this, we also donate directly to local foodbanks and charities such as The Welcome Organisation, The Warehouse Newtownards, Homeplus NI and East Belfast Mission to strengthen local food support services. 

Nicola Mc Crudden, CEO of Homeless Connect and FareShare NI, said: 

“We’ve seen demand for food support continue to rise as households struggle with the cost of living. Partnerships with companies like Mash Direct help us deliver nutritious food and vegetables to community groups and charities working on the front line. Every donation makes a real difference to families facing impossible choices.” 

Our CEO, Jack Hamilton, added: 

“As a local food producer in Northern Ireland, we are committed to supporting our communities and households facing food insecurity. We recognise that demand is increasing and feel a strong responsibility to play our part where we can. We are proud to work alongside FareShare NI, local foodbanks and charities to help provide wholesome, nutritious meals to those who need them most.” 

We remain committed to supporting organisations on the front line of food poverty and will continue working closely with our partners to help families across Northern Ireland access nutritious food when they need it most.