The Ministry of Agricultural Business of the Nation organized a public-private meeting to promote an increase in consumption of fruits and vegetables in the country, which is in the order of 200 grams per day per person, i.e. half of the amount recommended (excluding tubers) to have a balanced and healthy diet, and quite far from the ideal 700 grams (300 grams in fruits and 400 in vegetables).
The challenge is long-term and involves social habits, which are very difficult to modify. According to estimates, Argentinians consume one fruit a day, when they should consume at least three.
In view of this, a collective network of institutions and companies with much symbolic weight, such as the United Nations Food Organization (FAO), the provincial ministries, the municipalities, Health and Production organizations, technicians from the INTA, Senasa, and different faculties are working together to achieve this increase in consumption.
In an act headed by Minister Luis Miguel Etchevehere, representatives of these entities and others signed a document where they expressed their commitment to promote a healthier diet.
"This is something that neither the private sector or the State can achieve alone," stated the minister, while expressing his enthusiasm for this initiative. The representatives of the companies linked to production, such as Tropical, which develops a massive campaign to increase fruit consumption in schools among children and teenagers, also expressed their optimism. Andres Murchison, the Secretary of Food and Bioeconomy and Fernando Blanco Muiño, national director of Consumer Protection highlighted the importance of multiplying this type of action.
Mercedes Nimo, the Undersecretary of Food and one of the people promoting this initiative, spoke about their goals. "We want to increase consumption, which would boost production, and generate a varied and quality offer."
To improve the Argentinian diet, the sector will increase sanitary controls, scientific research and information, and focus on promotion in wholesale and retail outlets. Another idea is to put together a unified calendar of seasonal fruits and vegetables. "If we want to change habits, we have to do it together," Nimo stated.
Source: clarin.com