An estimated 20,000 cancers could be prevented if half of all Americans simply increased their consumption of fruits and vegetables by a single serving per day, according to a new peer reviewed study published this week in the journal of Food and Chemical Toxicology. This study further substantiates decades of nutritional research which shows that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables improves health.
In response to Americans concerns about pesticide residues on their food, the study also examined potential cancer risk from residues. The study concluded, “The overwhelming difference between benefit and risk estimates provides confidence that consumers should not be concerned about cancer risks from consuming conventionally-grown fruits and vegetables.”
It should be noted that despite the recommendations of the government, health experts, consumer advocates and environmental groups to eat more conventional and organic fruits and vegetables, consumption has stagnated in recent years. We are hopeful that the simple and powerful message this study conveys of how important it can be to add even a single serving of produce to our diets will have a positive impact on consumers.
This study clearly illustrates that the key message for consumers is to choose either conventionally or organically grown fruits and vegetables with confidence, but remember to eat more for better health. View the peer reviewed study abstract here.