Consumption of fruit and vegetables by children in Australia and NSW: Results from National Surveys in 1995 and 2007. Monitoring Update.

Abstract

Fruit and vegetables provide multiple health benefits in children and adults, including a likely role in the prevention of excess weight gain. As such, the promotion of fruit and vegetables is included as a core component of policies and programs to promote healthy eating and reduce obesity. In order to ascertain the effectiveness of promotional efforts, it is important to measure and report on levels of consumption of fruit and vegetables over time. This brief report provides detailed information on the levels of consumption of fruit and vegetables among children aged 2‐16 years, in Australia and in NSW. Data are derived from the two most recent national dietary surveys, the 1995 National Nutrition Survey (1995 NNS) and the 2007 Australian National Children Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (2007 Survey). The national surveys use detailed 24‐hour recall methods, enabling amounts of fruit and vegetables consumed as well as numbers of serves consumed to be reported.