Fruits and vegetables on prescription

UK media announced the launch of the 'Fruit & Veg on Prescription' pilot project which is funded (GBP250,000/USD295,805) by local authorities and the Alexandra Rose Charity and is run by public health teams, in order to fight long-term health problems and food insecurity.

 

During the 12-month pilot project, fruit and vegetable vouchers will be distributed to a target group of 122 residents of 2 London boroughs (Tower Hamlets, Lambeth). Residents of Tower Hamlets will receive vouchers worth £6/USD 7.10 per week and those of Lambeth £8/USD 9.47 per week, plus £2/USD 2.37 per week for each household member . Beneficiaries can spend their vouchers on fruits and vegetables of their choice at local retailers and merchants.

 

Tower Hamlets currently has the highest poverty rate (39%), child poverty rate (56%) and income inequality of any London borough, while Lambeth also has a high rate of chronic disease and health inequalities.

 

Diet-related health problems cost the NHS (National Health Service) billions each year and prescribing fruit and vegetables could prevent premature deaths and significantly reduce costs to society. After evaluation of this pilot project, a nationwide deployment could be considered subject to funding.