Validated methodology in the UK and the European Union
Our methodology has been successfully validated by regulatory authorities in both the UK and the EU. It involved the systematic collection of historical evidence for a botanical food ingredient, where records of preparation, consumption context, and safety across generations were assessed. We applied a layered approach, including surveys, archived material, ethnobotanical references, and documented use in food products across many countries. This model demonstrated meeting significant history of consumption levels and contributed to positive regulatory outcomes — showcasing the power of a well-documented history of use combined with targeted modern evidence collection.
Global Survey Research capabilities with wide Geographic Reach
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Our surveys span all regions: the Europe Union, the United Kingdom, Asia (e.g., China, Malaysia, Thailand), North America and Latin America. We also work with sub-populations in these regions, such as established migrant communities preserving traditional food practices, including Asian groups in the UK-EU.
Survey Research and Analysis Services
At HOUS, we trace the journey of your natural ingredients, products, and substances from long-term use in the past to their relevance and application today. We combine human insight with cutting-edge methodologies to gather the best available evidence of long-term, traditional and safe use.
We engage directly with Food Business Operators, local communities, and consumers — systematically collecting testimonials, records, sales invoices, and any other evidence that emerges — to build a comprehensive picture of historical use and safety.
This multifaceted evidence is vital for companies, regulators, and researchers. It can substantiate a product or ingredient’s safety, help meet regulatory requirements, foster consumer trust, and pave the way for market access and innovation in food, supplements, cosmetics, and beyond.
Flexible Data Collection Methods & Interview Formats
Gathering data and knowledge on history of use or history of consumption and modern insights to support product safety, regulatory approval for market access, and business innovation
We leverage validated face-to-face and digital techniques — including surveys, interviews, community discussions, and digital webcam surveys depending on local conditions and regulatory goals — to broaden our reach and deepen our understanding. Methods are adapted to capture the most accurate evidence of traditional use and consumer habits. Our surveys are based on validated social sciences methods, uncovering how plants, decoctions, extracts, natural foods, herbs, spices, and remedies have been used across generations, enhanced by digital innovation and rigorous data science.
Use of statistical & advanced AI analytical methods
Established statistical methodology and advanced AI methods, including machine learning and natural language processing, help us analyse vast datasets, detect usage patterns, predict emerging trends and uncover significance of historical use of a product or ingredient.
Historical and Archival Data for Regulatory Support
We complement survey findings with archival research that dates back to the pre-1900s. Our work includes sourcing business directories, public records, rare publications, and a proprietary in-house database refined over 30 years to support regulatory evidence generation.
Getting the best available and integrated evidence evaluation: Weight of Evidence and Totality of the evidence
We are at the forefront of innovation in business and regulatory work, helping align research and product development strategies with regulatory expectations in Europe, the UK and beyond.
With impartiality and scientific methodological rigor, we use comprehensive systematic approaches (such as Weight of Evidence and Totality of the evidence) to assess scientific and other types of evidence.
Survey Design & Execution – We create custom questionnaires tailored to your research goals. Our designs capture high-quality data from stakeholders, consumers, and product users.
Participant Recruitment – We manage targeted recruitment from small groups to thousands of respondents. Our networks allow access to niche populations and hard-to-reach communities.
Survey Completion, Data Collection & Analysis – We oversee the complete lifecycle of each survey with full process management, including scheduling, quality control, data cleaning, and detailed analysis.
Advanced Statistical & Predictive Analysis – Using AI, we uncover hidden insights, interpret trends over time, and simulate potential future scenarios based on historical use.
Competitor & Market Analysis – We support regulatory submissions and retro-branding initiatives with contextual market knowledge and competitor trend tracking.
