As we see a drop in the price of fresh fruit and vegetables, adding one more vegetable to your daily diet and reaping the long-term health benefits is now more affordable.
Stats NZ revealed that fruit and vegetables fell 9.3 percent from 12 months to February 2024.
“The decrease in fruit and vegetable prices was driven by the Prices of fresh produce such as tomatoes, broccoli, and lettuce,” said Stats NZ’s Consumer Prices Manager Will Bell.
“Tomatoes are now 57 percent less than they were this time last year, while broccoli is 40.4 percent cheaper, and lettuce is 37.4 percent less compared to 12 months ago.”
Since the beginning of this year, fruit and vegetable prices have fallen 4.6 percent, with apples, kūmara and tomatoes recording noticeable drops and providing better value for consumers.
Research conducted by NielsenIQ for 5+ A Day last December showed that half of all Kiwi consumers spend between $11 and $30 on fresh fruit and vegetables weekly.
Older New Zealanders (55+ years) typically spend the least, while those aged 40-54 with higher household incomes generally spend the most.
The 5+ A Day Charitable Trust partnered with Vegetables.co.nz to launch an initiative encouraging Kiwi whānau to Add One More Vegetable to their daily routine. One extra serving of vegetables daily can significantly impact your overall health.
“Not only does it provide you with vital nutrients, such as vitamin C and dietary fibre, but also greater diversity. Each vegetable provides a unique combination of nutrients and important phytochemicals for health,” said 5+ A Day Trustee and Principal Scientist and Team Leader at Plant and Food Research, Dr Carolyn Lister.
Studies have reported that the most consistent decrease in disease risk is observed when people increase the diversity of the vegetables they eat.”
“Many are struggling amid a tough economy, but we urge people to use this opportunity to invest in their health and eat fresher produce. Shopping in season will also greatly affect the price you pay at the checkout.”
Only one in every four Kiwis currently eat the recommended five or more servings of vegetables each day. Falling prices make adding another daily serving more achievable for everyone.
