Skip to content
understanding-veg-hero-1800x1200

Understanding Five-A-Day

Confused about 5-a-day? You’re not alone.

Get simple, expert answers to help your family eat more veg, fruit and beans, without the stress.

My kid won’t eat veg!

Don’t worry, you just need the right know-how.

From “what counts as 5-a-day?” to “why won’t my child eat veg?”, this is where to start.
Our experts break it down into simple, practical steps so you can build confidence, waste less food, and make small changes that actually stick.

All kids have natural taste and texture preferences — sweet or bitter, crunchy or soft. Once you understand these, choosing veg gets much easier.

Experts Prof. Giles Yeo and Kim Smith show you how to spot your child’s preferences and build from there.

> UNDERSTANDING PREFERENCES

What counts? Does it have to be fresh? Do fruit juices, beans and potatoes count? And is it actually affordable?

Registered nutritionist Jenny Rosborough breaks down 5-a-day into simple, realistic steps for everyday family life.

> PORTIONS

Different coloured fruit & veg bring different nutrients, but it doesn’t have to be complicated.

Dr Laura Wyness RNutr explains how to add more colour (and goodness) in a way that feels easy and doable.

> EAT THE RAINBOW

If your child is autistic or sensitive to textures, trying new foods can feel overwhelming.

Dietitian David Rex RD shares practical, supportive ways to reduce pressure and build confidence over time.

> SUPPORTING NEURODIVERSITY

It can feel expensive to eat more fruit and veg when fresh food is pricey and easily wasted, but the right choices can actually save money.

Our experts share simple swaps and tips to help you eat more veg, fruit and beans on a budget.

> VEG ON A BUDGET

Seasonal veg and fruit can be cheaper, fresher and tastier, not to mention better for the planet! But where do you start?

Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall shows how eating with the seasons can be simple, affordable and family-friendly.

> EAT WITH THE SEASONS

Not sure where to start with the veg you have on hand? Our A-Z guide helps you understand what each veg tastes like, how to cook it, and simple ways to serve it, as well as everything from storage tips to ways to engage kids with it.
It’s a handy way to find new favourites and build confidence, one veg at a time.

> A-Z OF VEG

Beans are a simple, affordable way to boost fibre and protein, and they count towards your 5-a-day!
From chickpeas to lentils, discover how different beans work and easy ways to use them in everyday meals.

> DISCOVER BEANS

Fruit is an easy win when working towards 5-a-day. Naturally sweet, familiar, and ready to eat.
Explore simple ideas for everyday favourites like apples and pears, or head to our berry guide for easy, family-friendly ways to add more in.

> GREAT BRITISH FRUIT

Engaging kids with veg, fruit & beans is an easy way to take a step closer to them actually eating it! Whether it’s starting out with crafts and science experiments, or moving on to sensory exploration or even getting kids in the kitchen, we have expert tips for you on how to do it the easy way!

> ENGAGING KIDS

We’re not here to persuade you to cook completely new meals your family might not like. Instead, we help you take the food your family already loves – your food –  and make it a little healthier, one small, simple step at a time.

No faff. No food waste. No dinner-table battles.

> YOUR FOOD

The moments before food is offered can be a perfect opportunity for engagement that can help make it more likely a child will eat it! We have advice and practical tips to make it a simple and free process for you.

> SERVING FOR SUCCESS