Seven out of 10 people not eating enough fruit and veg

Almost seven out of 10 people are failing to eat the recommended daily intake of fruit and vegetables, according to a survey but the British Dietetic Association. In a Gallup poll of 1,000 people for the BDA, people revealed expense, inconvenience and unpleasant taste as reasons not to eat the government's recommended five portions a day. Consumers are also confused about what comprises the five portions. Some 80 per cent of those surveyed thought that a jacket potato counted as one portion, which it does not as it is regarded as a starchy food. Two tablespoons of frozen vegetables, one tablespoon of dried apricots and a glass of fruit juice all count as part of the recommended daily allowance. Next month the BDA will launch its 'Give me Five' campaign to encourage more people to eat more fruit and vegetables.