ABSTRACT
Fruits and vegetables form an important part of the diet and are usually regarded as ‘good’ foods. They are major sources of vitamin C, folates and nonstarch polysaccharides but, as Tables 15.1 and 15.2 show, they are not, in general, rich in other nutrients. They are low energy-density, and are low in fats. Fruits tend to be relatively bulky, and can displace other desserts in meals, such as higher energy, higher fat foods. There is plenty of evidence to recommend eating more fruits and vegetables, for a range of health reasons. Most countries have adopted the WHO recommendation to consume a minimum of five 80 g portions each day (excluding potatoes).
