Global Fruit and Vegetable Output Is Rising, but Diets Aren’t Following

Despite an increase in global fruit and vegetable production, diets are not improving as a result, according to FAO Director-General QU Dongyu. He argued at the International Horticultural Congress 2026 that agriculture needs to shift its focus from simply producing more food to providing healthy foods that are accessible and affordable for everyone. Currently, global consumption of fruits and vegetables falls well below the recommended daily intake of 400 grams per person.

Productivity, availability, and affordability were identified as barriers holding back the sector. Horticultural yields have grown less than one percent annually, and producer prices for fruits and vegetables have been on the rise. The majority of global producer support is directed towards grains, sugar, dairy, and meat, leaving fruits and vegetables with limited subsidy backing. QU emphasized the importance of involving small-scale farmers in innovations and investments in order to drive growth in the sector and meet future demand for fruits and vegetables.