Top US States for Vegetable Consumption
Based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 2019, Vermont has the highest percentage of adults meeting federal vegetable intake recommendations. This metric tracks the proportion of the population consuming 2-3 cup-equivalents of vegetables per day, as advised by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. For 2019, Vermont was the only state where more than 15% of the adult population achieved this goal.
While Vermont excels in this specific metric, other states in the New England region and along the West Coast consistently rank high across different reports. For instance, based on median reported intake frequency, both Maine and Vermont scored highest, with adults consuming vegetables an average of 1.9 times per day, according to a 2022 analysis of 2019 BRFSS data. This contrasts with data from 2014 that showed Oregon and California leading in total produce consumption, likely influenced by their strong agricultural sectors and accessible food markets.
Factors Influencing State-by-State Consumption
Numerous factors contribute to the significant variation in vegetable consumption across the United States. These elements often overlap and can either enable or hinder healthy eating habits for residents.
- Socioeconomic Status and Income: Data suggests a strong correlation between income and vegetable consumption. Adults in higher-income households are more likely to meet vegetable intake recommendations compared to those living below or near the poverty level. Cost can be a significant barrier to accessing healthy foods.
- Food Access and Environment: Geographic location plays a key role, with proximity to healthy food retailers, farmers' markets, and local produce influencing dietary choices. States with stronger environmental supports for healthy eating, such as better transportation to food sources, often show higher consumption rates.
- Education and Awareness: Higher levels of education are often associated with better nutritional awareness and healthier eating habits. However, health promotion initiatives and public education campaigns are needed across all population segments to improve vegetable intake.
- Race, Ethnicity, and Age: The CDC's 2019 data revealed disparities in vegetable intake based on race, ethnicity, and age, highlighting the need for tailored public health interventions. For example, older adults (aged 51+) tend to have higher average vegetable intake than younger adults.
Comparison of Top vs. Bottom States
An examination of the 2019 BRFSS data, published by the CDC in January 2022, clearly illustrates the disparity between top-performing and bottom-performing states for meeting vegetable recommendations.
| State | Percentage of Adults Meeting Vegetable Recommendations | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont | 16.0% | Northeast |
| New York | 14.2% | Northeast |
| Connecticut | 14.1% | Northeast |
| Rhode Island | 13.4% | Northeast |
| Oregon | 12.2% | West |
| ... | ... | ... |
| Kentucky | 5.6% | South |
| West Virginia | 6.9% | South |
| Mississippi | 7.7% | South |
| Louisiana | 7.3% | South |
| Oklahoma | 6.9% | South |
This data shows that states in the Northeast and West tend to have higher percentages of adults meeting vegetable recommendations, while states in the South and Midwest tend to have lower percentages.
Practical Steps to Boost Vegetable Consumption
If you live in a state with lower vegetable consumption, or simply want to improve your own intake, there are actionable steps you can take:
- Explore Local Options: Seek out local farmers' markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, or community gardens to access fresh, seasonal produce. [See local government agriculture sites for resources.]
- Prioritize In-Season Produce: Purchasing vegetables that are in season can reduce costs and ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
- Meal Planning: Intentionally planning meals around vegetables, such as incorporating a veggie-heavy side dish or making a vegetarian entree, can help increase your intake naturally.
- Try New Preparation Methods: Experiment with roasting, grilling, or sauteing vegetables instead of simply boiling them. This can make them more appealing and delicious.
- Increase Awareness: Support local initiatives and policies that aim to improve food access and nutrition education within your community.
Conclusion
While Vermont can be identified as the state with the highest percentage of adults meeting daily vegetable recommendations, the larger story is the significant nationwide challenge in meeting federal dietary guidelines. Regional differences, driven by socioeconomic factors, food access, and education, are evident across the country. Addressing these disparities requires a multi-faceted approach, combining public health initiatives with individual efforts to prioritize and integrate more vegetables into our diets. By understanding these patterns, communities can develop targeted strategies to improve nutritional well-being for all residents. To delve deeper into the data, explore the CDC's official report on adult fruit and vegetable intake: Adults Meeting Fruit and Vegetable Intake Recommendations - United States, 2019.
