What was it all about?

This project surveyed almost 150,000 Australians to deliver insights into the fruit, vegetable and juice consumption of Australians through the CSIRO Healthy Diet Score.

An analysis of the survey data allowed investigators to find…

• The proportion of respondents who meet the fruit and vegetable consumption guidelines
• How much variety they consumed
• How various segments of the population differ
• The importance of fruit and vegetable intake on overall Diet Score.

 The research revealed a significant opportunity to grow consumption, with over half of Australian adults not currently eating enough fruit – and over 65 per cent not eating enough veg – to meet Australia’s dietary guidelines. 

Women, older Australians, retired people were segments of the population more likely to meet the guidelines.

The researchers recommended health promotion of one simple message to Australians — always eat three types of vegetables with dinner.

The research was a multi-industry effort also involving the apple and pear and vegetable industries.

ACT NOW

• Download the Fruit, Vegetables and Diet Score report produced by the project
  
  
• Read more about the project findings in this Hort Innovation article
  
  
• Take the Healthy Diet Score challenge here