Bord Bia utilises new school year to promote benefits of fruit and veg

PARENTS have been reminded that they can boost their children’s health while supporting Ireland’s horticulture industry.

As schools reopen after the summer holidays, Bord Bia is highlighting the strong nutritional benefits of fruit and vegetables as part of children’s daily diet.

It revealed that new research showed that 70% of consumers correctly identified five portions of fruit and vegetables a day as the recommended amount, representing a 20% increase on 2007 figures.

The news that Irish consumers are eating more fruit and vegetables and are becoming more mindful of their diet will be welcomed by the horticultural industry, which employs 10,000 people.

Output by the sector is now valued at over €300 million annually, while retail sales are of the order of €650m.

Bord Bia horticulture manager Mike Neary said fresh fruit and vegetables are a vital part of a healthy diet.

“As we enter autumn and another school year, we want to remind parents and consumers that we are into the main Irish harvest season and local fresh fruit and vegetables are in plentiful supply.

“Our research shows that as a nation we are becoming more mindful of our diet and the food we eat on a daily basis,” he said.

Nutritionist Paula Mee urged parents to include a mixture of fruit and vegetables in their children’s school lunch boxes.

“Research has proven that fruit and vegetables contain high levels of vitamins, minerals, nutrients, fibre and antioxidants, all essentials in the efficient functioning of the body,” she said.

“Consumption of fruit and veg improves the overall quality of diet and helps reduce the risk of obesity.”

As part of Bord Bia’s promotional campaign to help consumers identify what fruit and vegetables are available in Ireland and what is best in season, the website www.bestinseason.ie explains the benefits of eating fresh produce grown within the natural Irish season and contains a range of recipes.