Survey reveals vegetarianism is on the rise

A growing number of consumers plan to up their consumption of fruit and vegetables in the next 12 months, according to new research by SuperValu. As sustainability and environmental awareness continue to soar, meat-free meals are becoming more common across the board.

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Irish consumers are planning to consume more meat-free meals in the next 12 months, according to new research carried out by SuperValu. One in four respondents said they intend to make the effort to eat more vegetarian meals, with 59% cooking meat-free meals at least once a week.

The survey is part of SuperValu’s campaign to encourage shoppers to #LoveFruitandVeg by eating in-season produce, as only 14% of those surveyed said it was something they actively look for while shopping.

According to Gillian McGowan, fruit and vegetable category manager at SuperValu, the supermarket retailer strives to provide the best quality seasonal produce for its shoppers. “In-season fruit and vegetables are tastier, more nutritious and incur less food miles,” McGowan said. “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.”

Meanwhile, just 4% of respondents said they eat the recommended seven daily portions of fruit and veg, while over one-third eat less than two portions each day.

Aveen Bannon, Consultant Dietician, said these figures are disappointing . “My advice to people is to eat a ‘rainbow’ of fruit and vegetables,” said Bannon, “but particularly include fruit and vegetables that are in season!

“Fruits and vegetables contain natural compounds called phytochemicals,” she explained, “which give them their characteristic colour, flavour, smell or texture. These compounds together with vitamins, minerals and fibre, can really help reduce the risk of many disease.”

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 them.

For inspiration on meat-free meals, or how to make simple easy switches checkout www.supervalu.ie for recipes.

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