Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day
Every May 21, when our favorite fruits and veggies are in season, Eat More Fruits and Veggies Day encourages healthy eating. Celebrate and improve your diet and get others to do the same.
Key Info: Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day
- When is Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day?
Occurs annually on the 21st of May - This Year (2026):
Thursday, May 21, 2026 (date has passed) - Official Website: Dole Corporate Website
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Future Dates
- Friday, May 21, 2027
- Sunday, May 21, 2028
- Monday, May 21, 2029
- Tuesday, May 21, 2030
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Additional Details
- Observed By: Health-conscious individuals, nutrition advocates, and food industry participants
- Where Is It Observed: International
- Primary Theme: Healthy Eating and Nutrition
- Hashtags: #EatMoreFruitsAndVegetables #EatMoreFruitsAndVeggiesDay #HealthyEating #FruitsAndVeggies #DoleNutrition
Quick links: Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day
What Is a Balanced Diet?
No food can provide all the vitamins, nutrients, and fiber the body needs. Diversity is key. A balanced diet is a rainbow of foods in the right proportions, including fruits, veggies, lean proteins, whole grains, and dairy.
The American Heart Association recommends filling half your plate with fruits and veggies to meet their daily 4.5 cups.
Veggies like leafy greens, carrots, and beans help with smooth digestion and regular bowel movements. Fruits and veggies also contain nutrients that support brain health, mood, and mental well-being.
Why Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day Matters
The global health issue of low fruit and vegetable consumption is a significant risk factor in global mortality, according to the World Health Organization. A complete and nutritious diet could help prevent many deaths due to lifestyle diseases like stroke, diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Unfortunately, many people cannot access fresh and affordable produce due to income and education, leading to a preference for cheaper processed foods, which may result in poor health outcomes.
Due to changes in food systems, urbanization, and globalization, the prevalence of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods is increasing. This annual event reminds us to provide and consume better food daily.
Data and Statistics
The World Health Organization reveals nearly 2.8 million people die each year due to complications from being overweight or obese thanks to unhealthy eating patterns.
In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that only 12.3% and 10.0% of adults meet the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables, respectively.
A 2017 International Journal of Epidemiology study also showed a potential link between higher fruit and vegetable consumption and reduced premature mortality. It is also connected with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
How to Fall in Love with Veggies and Fruits
- Try different cooking methods. Steaming, grilling, roasting or stir frying veggies can make them taste better and look more appealing.
- Add more veggies to your favorite dishes. For example, add spinach to your morning smoothie. Mix diced veggies into pasta sauce or stuff bell peppers with lean protein.
- Keep a bowl of fresh fruit on the counter or pre-cut veggies like baby carrots in the fridge.
- Try new fruits and veggies. Trying exotic fruits and veggies can make eating them more fun and exciting. Find these Asian fruits in your local market.
- Pair veggies with a tasty dip or dressing to make them more appealing. Hummus, salsa or a yogurt based dip are healthy options that make raw or cooked veggies like Brussels sprouts more delicious.
Brief Timeline of Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day
The WHO and FAO held the Joint WHO/FAO Expert Consultation on Diet, Nutrition, and the Prevention of Chronic Diseases. They recommended a minimum intake of 400g of fruits and vegetables daily to prevent chronic diseases.
The World Health Assembly adopted the Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity, and Health, which includes promoting fruit and vegetable consumption.
The Produce for Better Health Foundation launched the first "Fruit and Veggies—More Matters" campaign in the United States.
The FAO and WHO jointly hold the Second International Conference on Nutrition. They reaffirm the importance of fruits and vegetables in preventing malnutrition and non-communicable diseases.
The Dole Food Company first celebrated the National Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day in New Orleans.
The United Nations General Assembly declares 2021 the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables. It raises awareness about the critical role of fruits and vegetables in human nutrition and food security and in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Hashtags
- #EatMoreFruitsAndVeggiesDay
- #HealthyEating
- #PlantPower
- #FruitVeggiePledge
- #RainbowPlate
Conclusion
Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day promotes a healthy diet rich not only in colors but also in nutrients. On this day, encourage yourself and others to reflect on their eating habits and make small changes to improve their health.
Lastly, make the health benefits available to everyone by advocating for improved access to fresh produce in communities.
Resources:
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Include fresh fruits and vegetables for essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber in your diet. Eating various foods can help protect against cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
It is celebrated on May 21 each year.
You can add fruits to your cereal, have a side of vegetables with your meals, and snack on fruits instead of processed food.
Try making smoothies, stir-fries, and salads from your fruits and vegetables.
Mike is a degree-qualified researcher and writer passionate about increasing global awareness about climate change and encouraging people to act collectively in resolving these issues.
Fact Checked By:
Isabela Sedano, BEng.
