Keep kids eating produce: global study finds shortfalls in veggie intake despite safety reminders
Amid a multistate cyclospora outbreak, a BMJ Global Health study of more than 1,200 dietary surveys across 185 countries finds children worldwide still fall short of recommended intakes of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds, with only modest progress since 1990. In the U.S., babies and toddlers eat relatively high fruit/veg, but older kids consume far less, highlighting the need for consistent family routines and healthier food environments. Officials say the outbreak doesn’t justify avoiding fresh produce—wash and rinse produce, prevent cross-contamination, and follow recalls; all forms of produce can fit a healthy diet, with extra caution for high-risk groups. The takeaway is to encourage steady, practical steps to help kids eat more produce and develop lifelong healthy habits.
