New data from the Office of Health Improvements and Disparities (OHID) shows that fruit and veg consumption in England remains stubbornly low, and deeply unequal.
In 2023/24, just 31.3% of adults (16+) reported eating the recommended five portions of fruit and veg a day, a marginal improvement from 31% in 2022/23. Worryingly, the data reveal deepening inequalities with only 22% of adults in the most deprived areas meeting their ‘5 a day’ target, compared to 39% in the least deprived areas.
These figures paint a stark picture of inequality in access to healthy food, and the urgent need for action. We’re urging the Government to include a clear commitment in the upcoming Food Strategy to pilot and scale financial incentive projects, like Rose Vouchers. Our work demonstrates that these initiatives are win-win solutions for people’s health, their pockets, the NHS and the economy.
Jonathan Pauling, CEO of Alexandra Rose Charity, commented:
“For yet another year, the Government’s own data shows little progress in people eating more fruit and veg. For families on low incomes, eating ‘5-a-day’ now costs an extra 46p per person per day, a price many simply cannot afford.
Improving access and affordability of fruit and veg for those on the lowest incomes must be a key focus of the Government’s Food Strategy. Initiatives like Rose Vouchers should be part of the solution, so that every family, regardless of who they are and where they live, can access the healthy food they need to thrive.”