Fruits and Vegetables for Healthy Diets: Priorities for Food System Research and Action

Abstract

Fruits and vegetables are vital for healthy diets, but intake remains low for a majority of the global population. This chapter reviews academic literature on food system issues, as well as opportunities for research and action, as an input into the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit in the context of the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables.The chapter summarises evidence underpinning food system actions to make fruits and vegetables more available, accessible and desirable through push (production and supply), pull (demand and activism) and policy (legislation and governance) mechanisms, with action options at the macro (global and national), meso (institutional, city and community) and micro (household and individual) levels. It also suggests the need to recognise and address power disparities across food systems, and trade-offs among diet, livelihood and environmental food system outcomes.We conclude that there is still a need to better understand the different ways that food systems can make fruits and vegetables available, affordable, accessible and desirable across places and over time, but also that we know enough to accelerate action in support of fruit- and vegetable-rich food systems that can drive healthy diets for all.

Women Consumers’ Views on Legislation to Restrict Prominent Placement and Multibuy Promotions of High Fat, Sugar, and Salt Products in England: A Qualitative Perspective

“…The legislation is likely to be maximally effective if implemented alongside interventions that make fruit and vegetables more affordable and appealing, and ensure consumers have the time and resources required to plan, prepare, and cook healthier meals. 33 , 34 …”

“…The legislation is likely to be maximally effective if implemented alongside interventions that make fruit and vegetables more affordable and appealing, and ensure consumers have the time and resources required to plan, prepare, and cook healthier meals. 33,34 The higher price of healthy foods, compared to HFSS foods, was raised by many participants as a factor that could undermine effectiveness of the incoming legislation. Healthy food has been shown to cost more than unhealthy food per calorie and less money is spent on marketing healthy foods by businesses.…”

Value seeking, health-conscious or sustainability-concerned? Profiling fruit and vegetable consumers in Euro-Mediterranean countries

“…One of the most crucial elements of a healthy diet is the consumption of fruit and vegetable (F&V), which are abundant in essential nutrients and play a vital role in preventing chronic diseases (Wallace et al, 2020). Despite widespread awareness of the importance and benefits of F&V consumption, actual intake often falls short of recommended daily standards (Harris et al, 2023). Recommended guidelines suggest a minimum of 400 grams (equivalent to five servings) of F&V per day to prevent chronic diseases and maintain overall well-being (European Commission, 2024).…”

Polymer and photo‐selective covers on plant and fruit development: A review

“…Recognition that fruit and vegetables are essential components of a healthy diet has increased consumer demand for nutrient-dense food (Harris et al, 2023). Nevertheless, meeting the demands of this expanding market against a backdrop of population growth and anthropogenically induced climate (Engler & Krarti, 2021;Mola et al, 2021;Robson et al, 2022), allowing growers to achieve better crop yields than those in open field production systems (Gruda, 2005).…”