Currently, over half (59%) of Irish consumers cook vegetarian meals at least once a week, research shows.
In a new survey launched today (13 August) by SuperValu, it has been revealed that 40% of Irish shoppers are are planning to consume more meat-free meals in the next year.
One in four people surveyed said they were going to try and make the effort to eat more vegetarian meals, with both women and Dubliners more inclined to make the switch.
Fruit & Veg Consumption Low
However, the research indicated that only 14% of those surveyed said that they pick up in-season fruit and vegetables, when they do their grocery shop.
Allied to this, a mere 4% of respondents said that they eat the recommended seven portions of fruit and vegetables every day, while over a third surveyed eat less than two portions each day.
Aveen Bannon, consultant dietician, commented on the findings: “It is very disappointing and worrying to see only 4% of people are getting their seven portions of fruits and vegetables a day. My advice to people is to eat a rainbow but particularly include fruit and vegetables that are in season!
#LoveFruitandVeg
In recognition of this SuperValu has launched a new campaign #LoveFruitandVeg to encourage grocery shoppers to eat in-season produce.
“In season fruit and vegetables are tastier, more nutritious and incur less food miles," said Gillian McGowan, fruit and vegetable category manager, SuperValu.
"We highlight and promote our in-season produce in stores to help consumers identify the freshest and best quality local produce for the best value.”
Leftover Produce
The survey also revealed what Ireland does with the leftover produce, with almost half (45%) shockingly throwing it in the bin.
39% of people said they would make a leftover meal, while just under a third said they make soup and 18% said they freeze their leftovers.
SuperValu said in a statement that it currently 'stocks Ireland’s largest range of loose fruit and vegetables', having removed 11,396kg of plastic across produce ranges, 'this ensures that customers only buy what they need and leaves them with no waste'.
© 2019 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. Click sign-up to subscribe to Checkout.
