Freshfel Europe, a European fruit and vegetable chain organization, estimates that average fruit and vegetable consumption in the European Union (EU) was around 10 percent less last year than in 2021.
According to Fresfel Europe, the average fruit and vegetable consumption in 2021 in the EU was 364 grams per person. This means 2 percent more than a year earlier. This is approximately 150 grams of vegetables and 215 grams of fruit.
Recent consumption trends indicate that fruit and vegetable consumption is declining, according to Freshfel Europe. Therefore, the organization is taking into account that usage in 2022 could be about 10 percent lower compared to 2021.
The organization notes that fruit and vegetable consumption in the EU is still well below the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended amount of 400 grams per day. The level of youth consumption is especially low.
Not every day
Freshfel Europe reports that a survey by statistical agency Eurostat shows that only 12 percent of consumers in the EU eat five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. In addition, it turns out that 33 percent of people do not eat vegetables and fruits every day.
In addition, Freshfel Europe notes that in the current difficult economic climate, consumption among the low-income population is a concern. Consumer buying behavior is changing as purchasing power is under pressure. “Instead of high quality and organic products, consumers are looking for deals or buying smaller quantities.” Trends in European Member States cover 75 percent of the EU population.
