Freshfel Europe Urges EU Fruit And Vegetables Sector To Support 2021 IYFV

Freshfel Europe, a body that represents fresh produce trade across the continent, has called on the EU fruit and vegetables sector to support the 2021 International Year of Fruits and Vegetables (IYFV) initiative.

The body described the IYFV as 'a unique opportunity' to boost the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables by raising awareness about health and sustainability.

It will also highlight the importance of the fruit and vegetable sector at an EU as well as a global level.

The UN General Assembly has designated 2021 as the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables (IYFV).

'Global Acknowledgement'

Freshfel Europe general delegate, Philippe Binard, commented, "The 2021 IYFV is a milestone in global acknowledgement of the important role of the fruit and vegetable sector and the necessity to stimulate fresh produce consumption, which in the EU is currently below the WHO daily recommended of 400g per day."

Freshfel Europe has called on its members to proactively engage in the 2021 IYFV to maximise this remarkable year-long initiative's outreach.

The body emphasised that concrete initiatives at the local, regional and national levels are imperative to raising awareness about nutrition and the health benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption.

It thanked the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations for leading the IYFV initiative in collaboration with other organisations and bodies.

'Digital Campaign'

Binard added, "Freshfel Europe will be supporting FAO in celebrating the IYFV 2021 by launching a digital campaign in January targeted at EU decision-makers to better support the sector in EU policy-making.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has brought health to the forefront of consumers' minds and we are encouraging all our members to take action during 2021 to highlight the importance of fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy, nutritious, sustainable and delicious diet."