Only one in five Britons currently eats the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables a day according to a new a poll for World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF).
The Department of Health launched its five-a-day campaign in 2003, but the WCRF says its survey of more than 2,000 UK adults shows people still find achieving that goal difficult.
It is urging people to eat “just one more portion” for a healthier diet, which would increase cancer protection.
The YouGov survey for the WCRF found that, on average, 17% of lower income households (eat at least five portions per day, compared with 27% for those in higher income groups.
Kate Mendoza, head of education for the WCRF, said: “These figures show that many people are still finding it difficult to follow the healthy eating message.”
A Department of Health spokesperson said: “We know we need to do more to encourage people to eat their five a day and help prevent diseases like cancer.”
“That is why, through our Change4Life campaign, we invested around £10m last year on encouraging healthier lifestyles.
Source: WCRF Find out more