Media Release

Tuesday, 17 November 2009

Swan Hill Rural City Council's Food For All program has supported the Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) dispelling of the myth that healthy, fresh food is more expensive than unhealthy food.

Council's Food for All Officer Sallie Amy said that if people looked at the price per kilogram for healthier foods they are in fact, cost effective.

“What's more, the overall benefits to health should certainly be taken into account and it is great to see that the DAA is supporting initiatives to dispel the myth that fresh food is expensive,” Ms Amy said.

According to the DAA, a US study revealed 70 percent of people believe healthy food is more out of reach than this time last year, with around one in two admitting to buying less healthy foods because they cost less.

“The DAA says that food is often the largest part of a family budget, so Australians need to shop and eat smarter,” Ms Amy said.

“Stocking up on fresh fruit and vegetables first can greatly support keeping to within a shopping budget ensuring families have nutritious foods, buying fruit and vegetables while in season and shopping from local markets will also help the budget,” Ms Amy added.

According to DAA spokesperson Sandra Murray, fruit is the original ‘convenience' food and parents should encourage children to eat fresh whole fruits over juices and fruit-flavoured treats.

The peak nutrition body has also produced some budget-boosting tips that urge the community to get back to basics including:

• Plan your meals and recipes for the week

• Plan your food shopping – scan grocery stores brochures for specials, and shop when you're not hungry and without your children

• Create a shopping list and stick to it

• Take your lunch from home and save more than $40 per family member per week

• Eat fresh fruit and vegetables that are in season (this is when they are at their cheapest)

• Compare the per kilogram price of foods to work out your best choice

• Shop at local markets to take advantage of the cheaper produce – or even grow some of your own!

“Healthy eating is not only good for you, it is also has a positive effect on the hip pocket,” Ms Amy added.

For more information, please visit www.daa.asn.au.