Why the U.A.E. lags behind other countries in food & vegetable consumption

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the average fruit and vegetable consumption in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is relatively low. The FAO recommends a daily intake of at least 400 grams of fruits and vegetables per person, but the average consumption in the UAE is around 200 grams per person per day.

A few reasons that have been cited for the low consumption of fruits and vegetables in the UAE are:

1. Lack of awareness: Many people in the UAE are not aware of the benefits of consuming fruits and vegetables, or they may not know how to prepare them.

2. High cost: Fruits and vegetables can be relatively expensive in the UAE, especially for certain imported varieties.

3. Limited availability: Some fruits and vegetables are not readily available in the UAE, especially during certain times of the year.

4. Preference for processed foods: Many people in the UAE have a preference for processed foods, which may be less healthy than fruits and vegetables.

5. Climate: The hot and dry climate of the UAE can make it difficult to grow certain fruits and vegetables, and the high temperatures may also make them less appealing to eat.

Despite these challenges, there have been efforts to promote fruit and vegetable consumption in the UAE, such as through educational campaigns, government initiatives and the development of more sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, there are also a number of local farmers that are working to cultivate more fruits and vegetables in the country and make them more available to the public.