New research from Aldi has highlighted a seasonal drop off in fresh produce consumption during winter as children spend more time indoors
Almost half of parents say they find it easier to encourage children to eat more fruit and veg after outdoor activity, while staying indoors leads to a drop in intake, new research has found.
The poll of 1,000 parents of children between the age of four and 12, conducted by Aldi, found a third of children spend 20 minutes or less outside during colder months.
Meanwhile, more than two fifths (42 per cent) of parents said they find it easier to encourage children to eat fruit and vegetables after they’ve been active outdoors.
Findings suggest there is a seasonal shift in fresh produce consumption among children, with a third of parents saying fruit and veg intake drops when favourites are out of season.
The research was conducted to mark 10 years of Aldi’s Get Set to Eat Fresh schools programme, which it runs with Team GB and ParalympicsGB.
To encourage parents to go outside with children whatever the weather, Aldi is working with Team GB rower and mum of three Helen Glover.
“I totally understand why so many families slip into ‘hibernation mode’ when it’s cold and wet,” she said. “Getting everyone out of the door can feel like a whole operation, and it’s all too tempting to stay cosy indoors.
“I’ve also found that being outside makes it easier to encourage healthier snacks afterwards, like a piece of fruit or some crunchy veg sticks,” she added.
It comes as Aldi UK CCO, Julie Ashfield, confirmed the discounter is investing a further £2m in the programme.
“Through the Get Set to Eat Fresh programme, we’ve spent the last 10 years supporting schools across the UK with free resources that help children understand the connection between eating well and staying active, in a fun and practical way,” she said.
“We’re now investing a further £2m into the programme over the next five years to build on that progress and reach even more children.”
