Fruit Consumption Indicators: Who Consumes More Fruit in Utah?

Applied Economics/2024-01pr

Fruit Consumption Indicators: Who Consumes More Fruit in Utah? Makaylie Langford, USU Extension Intern, Department of Applied Economics Kynda Curtis, Professor and USU Extension Specialist, Department of Applied Economics

Introduction

While fruits are an important part of a healthy diet and provide essential nutrients, many Americans do not eat recommended levels of fruit (Harvard School of Public Health, 2018; Economic Research Service [ERS], 2023). Fruits are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals that are essential to human health. Many fruits are rich in potassium, fiber, vitamin C, and folate (Harvard School of Public Health, 2018; ERS, 2023). These micronutrients are important for maintaining healthy blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels, promoting healthy bowel function, and growing and repairing body tissues. Additionally, research shows that diets high in fruits and vegetables are associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and some kinds of cancer (Harvard School of Public Health, 2018). As fruits are typically low in calories, diets high in fruit are often lower in total energy intake. Evidence suggests that a diet high in fruits and vegetables can Many factors influence fruit consumption: also prevent eye conditions related to aging such as cataracts • Demographics and macular degeneration (Harvard School of Public Health, • Socioeconomic status 2018). • • •

Household circumstances Access Personal preferences

Given all the potential health benefits of consuming fresh produce, especially fruits, why are Americans not eating enough fruit? Previous studies show that many factors influence fruit consumption, including demographics, socioeconomic status, household circumstances, access, and personal preferences (Emanuel et al., 2012; Guthrie et al., 2005; Liese et al., 2013; Middaugh et al., 2012; Prattala et al., 2006). This fact sheet discusses fruit consumption patterns in Utah, exploring the key demographic and socioeconomic factors linked to increased fruit intake. Fruit growers and marketers can use this information to design effective promotional campaigns targeting consumers more likely to purchase fruit and fruit products.

Determinants of Fruit Consumption

Data from the Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) in 2021 found that 29% to 34% of adults in Utah eat fruit twice a day or more (Public Health Indicator Based Information System [IBIS], 2022). Research 1

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Fruit Consumption Indicators: Who Consumes More Fruit in Utah?

Published on Jul 29, 2024

Utah State University Extension

"Given all the potential health benefits of consuming fresh produce, especially fruits, why are Americans not eating enough fruit? Previous studies show that many factors influence fruit consumption, including demographics, socioeconomic status," "• Personal preferences" "household circumstances, access, and personal preferences (Emanuel et al., 2012; Guthrie et al., 2005; Liese et al., 2013; Middaugh et al., 2012; Prattala et al., 2006). This fact sheet discusses fruit consumption patterns in Utah, exploring the key demographic and socioeconomic factors linked to increased fruit intake. Fruit growers and marketers can use this information to design effective promotional campaigns targeting consumers more likely to purchase fruit and fruit products."