The contribution of household fruit and vegetable growing to fruit and vegetable self‐sufficiency and consumption

Summary

This observational study of 85 UK households with fruit and vegetable gardens demonstrates that domestic production supplies approximately half of growers' annual vegetable and potato consumption and 20% of fruit consumption. Study participants consumed 6.3 portions of fruit and vegetables daily—70% above the UK national average—with negligible waste (95% lower than the national average), suggesting household growing substantially improves both diet quality and food system resilience.

Regional applicability

This study was conducted in the United Kingdom and directly reflects UK conditions, food production patterns, and dietary benchmarks. The findings are highly applicable to UK policy and practice regarding food security, public health nutrition, and sustainable food systems.

Key measures

Household self-sufficiency (%) in vegetables, fruits and potatoes; daily per capita F&V intake (grams); portions consumed per day; contribution of own production to 5-a-day requirements; F&V waste (portions per day)

Outcomes reported

The study quantified year-long household fruit and vegetable production, purchases, donations and waste in UK grower households, measuring self-sufficiency levels and dietary intake relative to national recommendations. It assessed the contribution of own production to meeting 5-a-day guidelines and compared waste rates against UK averages.

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