Innocent Drinks has teamed up with environmental charity Hubbub and social enterprise Love Food CIC to launch a new community initiative, Ready Steady Veg, aimed at helping us eat more fruit and vegetables.
The initiative kicks off with a series of hands-on cooking sessions at the St Thomas Community Food Hub in Exeter, operated by Love Food CIC. Designed to encourage healthier eating habits, the programme will provide local residents with practical skills and inspiration to incorporate more fresh produce into their meals.
Addressing the Nation’s Fruit & Veg Shortfall
With two-thirds of the UK population failing to meet their recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables, Ready Steady Veg seeks to tackle this issue by focusing on communities where access to affordable fresh produce is a challenge. Innocent Drinks, a brand synonymous with health and sustainability, is leading the charge in making nutritious food more accessible.
“Our goal is to make it easier and more enjoyable for people to get their five-a-day,” said John Taylor, General Manager at Innocent Drinks. “These sessions are a fantastic way to inspire everyone to enjoy a healthier diet while bringing the community together.”
Engaging and Educating Through Cooking
The cooking sessions, led by food experts, will not only teach participants how to prepare delicious, vegetable-packed meals but also highlight the benefits of a plant-rich diet. To ensure the impact extends beyond the sessions, Hubbub will distribute a specially curated recipe book through its nationwide community fridge network, helping households across the UK make nutritious meals a regular part of their routine.
“Increasing vegetable consumption is not only beneficial for personal health but also plays a crucial role in environmental sustainability,” said Ellen Rutherford, Head of Food at Hubbub. “This initiative is a great way to empower communities with the knowledge and tools to make lasting dietary changes.”
Political Backing and Future Sessions
The initiative has already gained political support, with local MP Steve Race taking part in one of the sessions and emphasising the importance of good nutrition for overall community well-being.
Additional cooking sessions are scheduled for March 7th, 14th, and 21st, providing more residents with the opportunity to develop essential cooking skills and build confidence in the kitchen.
As Ready Steady Veg continues to grow, Innocent Drinks and its partners hope to see a lasting shift towards healthier eating habits, proving that small, community-led actions can have a big impact on national dietary trends.
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