The slogan "For your health, eat at least five fruits and vegetables a day" has been a cornerstone of France's National Nutrition Health Program (PNNS) since 2001, featured in countless food ads. Research from Inpes shows these catchy messages do influence eating habits positively. Yet, a Crédoc survey released July 11, 2017, paints a sobering picture: just one in four French adults follow this guideline. Among those 18 and older, compliance slipped from 27% in 2007 to 25% in 2010, leaving three-quarters far short of the mark.
Why the resistance, given fruits and vegetables' proven benefits—packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber for protection against chronic diseases, as Crédoc notes? Low consumers (under 3.5 servings daily) skew young, eating four times less than their grandparents. Urban lifestyles play a role: more dining out, screen-time meals, and grab-and-go options like pizzas, quiches, sandwiches, pasta, or rice.
Consumption varies by education and location. Children in no-diploma households average under two servings, though gaps have narrowed since 2010. Geography shows the biggest contrasts: Northern France trails the produce-rich South-West and South-East. Upcoming targeted policies aim to close these divides and encourage better habits nationwide.
With summer's fresh seasonal bounty, it's the perfect time to make five-a-day a reality—no excuses!
