Fruits & Veggies — More Matters™ is a dynamic health initiative that consumers will see in stores, online, at home and on packaging. It replaces the existing 5 A Day awareness program. It inspires consumers to eat more fruits and vegetables, showcasing the combination of great taste, nutrition, variety, and various product forms (fresh, frozen, canned, dried, and 100% juice). It also builds on the body of science that indicates that increased daily consumption of fruits and vegetables may help prevent many chronic diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Produce for Better Health Foundation (PBH) are leading this initiative and are in partnership with other health organizations. The goal is to achieve increased daily consumption of fruits and vegetables.
For more information on the Fruits and Veggies — More Matters health initiative, brand and logo, please visit PBH a fruits&veggies. Here are a few tips to get started:
§ Cook enough for several meals and freeze leftovers. Place food for 1-2 meals in each container.
§ Create a meal plan for the week that uses similar fruits and vegetables, prepared in different ways. Make the most out of the produce that you buy.
§ Buy fruits and vegetables in season at farmers’ markets or at your local grocery store.
§ Mix it yourself. 100% juice from frozen concentrate is often less expensive per serving than pre-bottled juice.
§ Minimize waste by buying only the amounts your family will eat.
§ Be creative! To get the most out of your purchase, enjoy your fruits and vegetables in different ways. For example, you can use fruits for dessert. Try baking apples or poaching pears with some cinnamon.
§ Don’t shop hungry. Eat a healthy snack, such as an apple, before going to the grocery store so that you stick to your budget and avoid spending money set aside for fruit and vegetables on less healthy temptations.
§ Maximize your time and money. Cut coupons for foods, such as fruits and vegetables, only on your grocery list.
§ Canned fruits and vegetables will last a long time and can be a healthy addition to a variety of meals. Choose canned vegetables and fruit that’s canned in 100% fruit juice.
§ Frozen fruit and vegetables store well in the freezer until you’re ready to add them to a meal.
§ Dried fruit lasts for a long time, but can be expensive. Buy in bulk with friends and share the cost.
§ Store-brands can be a great budget choice for many forms of fruits and vegetables.