Eating more fruits and vegetables doesn’t have to break the bank – especially if you include 100% juice in your pantry. A new cost analysis study conducted by the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) showed that if you make smart choices it doesn’t cost much to meet the 2 cups of fruit and 2.5 cups of vegetables recommended by the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA).The recent ERS data revealed that by including 100% juice, along with fresh, frozen and canned fruit and vegetable varieties, Americans can meet DGA recommendations for just $2.10 to $2.60 a day! And 100% juice plays an important part in meeting the goal at a low price, as data found several types of 100% juice cost under 65 cents a cup.
It isn’t always easy finding economical and healthy ways to feed your family, the research demonstrates that a family of four can purchase a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, to meet Dietary Guidelines on a limited budget based on USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan and using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Benefits (SNAP). One hundred percent juice plays a crucial role in helping to meet these healthy dietary goals. Looking for more tips on keeping your family eating a variety of fruits and veggies while sticking to a budget? Check out the full ERS report.
This chart appears in “Fruit and Vegetable Recommendations Can Be Met for $2.10 to $2.60 per Day” in ERS’s Amber Waves magazine, March 2016.
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About Diane Welland MS, RD
Diane Welland is a registered dietitian and Manager of Nutrition Communications of Juice Products Association. In this position, she manages nutrition policy and regulatory issues and works directly with the nutrition scientists on a variety of issues. Diane works closely to interpret new research as it pertains to the juice industry and frequently presents on nutrition issues.
In her spare time, Diane likes to cook, garden, and travel to foodie destinations.
