Record number of participating schools in the fruit project

In the Netherlands, children eat an average of 102.5 grams of fruit per day and 79 grams of vegetables (VCP 2012-2016). This is despite the recommended amount varying from 150–200 grams of fruit and 100–200 grams of vegetables, depending on age. The aim of the EU School Fruit and Vegetable Programme is to promote the consumption of vegetables and fruit among children and to teach them healthy eating habits.

Education

An additional objective of the EU programme is to promote knowledge about vegetables and fruit. Teachers can use the new online teaching portal Chef! for this purpose. In the portal, teachers will find the updated EU School Fruit introductory lesson for each year group, as well as short lesson activities (maximum 15 minutes) for use during the vegetable and fruit break. Teachers who want to do more with food education can also find the additional Tasting Lessons and Tasting Lesson activities here.

Delivery

The vegetables and fruit are supplied by eight recognised suppliers. These are Van Boekel AGF, C.J. den Daas B.V, Freshweb B.V., Gebr. Van Aarle B.V., Vitamine&Zo B.V., Fruitbedrijf Halm B.V., Willem Dijk AGF B.V. and Drogenbroek’s Fruit B.V. These suppliers are recognised for two school years.

New in the scheme

New in the scheme is that 20% of the products must consist of vegetables. This is intended to provide an additional boost to vegetable consumption. A product must also weigh at least 70 grams per serving, with a minimum total weight of 300 grams per week. Another change is that schools for secondary special education can participate. For the full scheme, see: https://www.rvo.nl/subsidie-en-financieringswijzer/schoolfruit-en-groenten.

EU School Fruit and Vegetable Programme

The EU School Fruit and Vegetable Programme is made possible financially by the European Union. The programme is implemented on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality. The Netherlands Enterprise Agency is responsible for implementing the scheme. The Tasting Lessons & EU School Fruit Support Centre, Wageningen University & Research, is responsible for registration, communication and education related to the programme.