How many portions of fruit and vegetables should we have per day? And how can we eat more?

The NHS recommends that we should eat at least 5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables a day¹. It is important that we consume fruit and vegetables as they are a good source of vitamins, minerals and fibre and are an important part of a healthy and balanced diet. 1 portion is equal to 80g of fresh, canned or frozen fruit or vegetables or 30g dried fruit².

If you're anything like us you sometimes struggle to consume even 5 portions of fruit and vegetables. Here are 5 tips that you could try in order to increase your fruit and vegetable consumption:

1. When making your lunch why not add some vegetables to your sandwich. Tomatoes are a favourite of mine, but you could add lettuce, cucumber or even peppers.
2. 150ml of unsweetened fruit juice 2 is a super quick and convenient way of having a portion of fruit, orange and mango is an excellent combo if you're looking for flavour recommendations. You should have no more than 150ml of unsweetened fruit juice in one day due to the amount of free sugar content which can cause damage to your teeth.
3. Why not swap your mid-morning biscuit for some carrot sticks and houmous?
4. Potatoes don't count towards your 5 a day as they are a starchy food however did you know that sweet potatoes do? Time to stock up! They taste fantastic and add variety to your meals. What's not to love?
5. All our Maggi recipes and on-pack recipe suggestions contain at least 2 of your 5 a day, however don't be afraid to add more – use up any left-over vegetables in your fridge by adding them to your meal. I especially recommend MAGGI® So Juicy® Sweet Chilli Halloumi. Click here for the recipe.

1 https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/5-a-day/
2 https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/5-a-day/portion-sizes/

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