About 5 A Day

The 5 A Day for Better Health program was developed in 1991 as a partnership between the National Cancer Institute and the Produce for Better Health Foundation.  This unique partnership has been successful in increasing both the awareness of health benefits of fruits and vegetables, and their consumption in the United States for over a decade.  Because of this success, the 5 A Day partnership is being expanded to include other federal and private, non-profit agencies whose missions include research, education, and the promotion of increased consumption of fruits and vegetables to improve the nation’s health.  The expanded partnership is expected to be in place by the end of 2002.

The Produce for Better Health Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to be the catalyst for creating a healthier America through increased consumption of a variety of fruits and vegetables.  The Foundation is chair of the National 5 A Day Partnership, consisting of government agencies, non-profit organizations, and industry working in collaboration to expand 5 A Day efforts to increase consumption of fruits and vegetables for improved public health. Help us celebrate our 10th anniversary by encouraging yourself and others to Eat 5 A Day!

On a mission.  To increase consumption of a variety of fruits and vegetables to an average of 5 or more servings a day to improve the health of Americans through a partnership among the health community, government agencies, the fruit and vegetable industry, and other private sectors. View our board of directors.

Educating Americans.  Children and adults are learning about eating more fruits and vegetables. Consumer awareness of 5 A Day increased from 8 percent in 1991 to 39 percent by 1997.

Promoting all fruits and vegetables.  The 5 A Day program is the nation's largest public/private partnership and the only initiative promoting all produce.

Selling more produce.  Studies show 5 A Day promotions increase fruit and vegetable sales in stores.

Improving our nation's health.  Average fruit and vegetable consumption increased half a serving from 3.9 servings a day in 1991, when the 5 A Day program began, to 4.4 servings by 1994. Click here to view our What Is A Serving? chart.

Reaching out to Americans.  Special events like National Nutrition Month^® and National 5 A Day Week help spread the word about eating more fruits and vegetables.

Ready to work with you to promote the 5 A Day message. You can participate in many 5 A Day promotions, programs, special events, and other activities.

Need more information about 5 A Day?  Ask PBH staff members!