Dole survey notes shoppers’ 'contradictory' views on healthier eating

Three out of four Americans believe fresh produce is a healthy choice, but nearly half of consumers polled believe the benefits of fresh produce are often ignored by the general public.

That's according to a newly released survey by Dole Food Co. The survey polled 1,038 adults in March and found that almost three-fourths of respondents (73%) agree that fruits and vegetables are a healthy choice for their family, while 68% think they taste great, 63% say they are necessary for kids' lunches and 60% believe they add flavor to any meal. 

The survey found that just over half of those responding (51%) also associate eating more fruits and vegetables with positively impacting the environment.

However, despite those positive feelings toward fresh produce, the survey revealed that almost half (48%) of participants think the general public is still ignorant about the health and environmental impacts of fresh produce.

“This survey is more proof of the disconnect between Americans' desire to eat healthier, including a produce-rich diet, and their ability to make that lifestyle a reality, given all of life's demands," William Goldfield, Dole director of corporate communications, said in a news release about the survey. "At Dole, we realize that healthy living can be a challenge, which is why we're committed to continually providing the highest quality fresh produce, fantastic plant-forward recipes, serving suggestions, education and wellness advice that can transform the desire for increased nutritional health into a daily routine for anyone, regardless of where they are on their personal health journey."

Released May 26, National Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day, the survey results offer a glimpse into the public's “often-contradictory views” on healthier eating, according to the release.

Goldfield said in the release that past Dole research has helped shape healthy-living campaigns such as this year's "Healthier by Dole" monthly recipe series that provides healthier, easier and tastier menu alternatives for big and small holidays and eating occasions and new Dole products. Those include the Dole’s Chopped Salad Kit,  Fresh Takes Ready-to-Eat and Sheet Pan lines.