Five Fruits and Vegetables

Strive to eat at least FIVE servings of fruits and vegetables a day.

Fruits and vegetables are an important part of a growing child’s healthy diet. Most fruits and vegetables are full of nutrients and naturally low in calories and fat, making them a healthy choice any time. And, they are full of water and fiber, which makes them filling.

Tips for Success:

• Offer new fruits and vegetables and old favorites together. It can take
  more than 10 tries for kids to like a new food, so if they don’t like it
  the first time, try it again soon.
• Have fruits and vegetables in children’s view on the counter or in the
  fridge; pre-cut to make it easier to grab and go.
• Ask kids to help choose different vegetables and fruits for the menu.
• Get kids involved in washing, chopping, and cooking fruits and vegetables. They love to eat what they help prepare.
• Make sure there are fruit or vegetable options at every meal.
• Be creative: add fruits and vegetables to pancakes, cereal, oatmeal,
  scrambled eggs, pasta, tacos, and sandwiches.

More Information
More "Five" information and resources can be found at our 5-2-1-Almost None Fact Sheets and Guides.

Frequently Asked Question on FIVE

Are Canned, Frozen, or Dried Fruits and Vegetables as Healthy as Fresh Ones?
Yes! Most frozen, canned, and dried fruits or vegetables can be as nutritious as fresh produce. Try to choose products without added sugars, salt, sauces, or seasonings.