Written question asked by Lord Lipsey (Other (affiliation)), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Darzi of Denham (Labour) on Wednesday, 5 November 2008.

Health: Fruit and Vegetables

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:What evidence led to their recommendation that everyone should eat five portions of fruit and vegetables each day.

Answer: The 5 A DAY message, to eat at least five portions (400g) of a variety of fruit and vegetables each day, was developed based on a recommendation from the World Health Organisation (WHO), following evidence that populations consuming at least 400g of fruit and vegetables per day can reduce the risk of deaths from chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and some cancers by up to 20 per cent. In the United Kingdom, the Department of Health's Committee on Medical Aspects of Food Policy and Nutrition (COMA) (now called the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN)) also reviewed the evidence and in 1998 endorsed the above recommendation. The 5 A DAY message reflects these recommendations and advises consumers to eat at least five 80g portions (400g) of fruit and vegetables per day.

Secondary information