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‘Almost six in ten people are aware of the “five or more a day message” but on average Irish people claim to be eating only three portions of fruit and vegetables a day.’ (Bord Bia) (a) Discuss the options available to consumers when selecting and purchasing fruit and vegetables - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2 - 2012
Question 2
‘Almost six in ten people are aware of the “five or more a day message” but on average Irish people claim to be eating only three portions of fruit and vegetables a ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:‘Almost six in ten people are aware of the “five or more a day message” but on average Irish people claim to be eating only three portions of fruit and vegetables a day.’ (Bord Bia) (a) Discuss the options available to consumers when selecting and purchasing fruit and vegetables - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2 - 2012
Step 1
Discuss the options available to consumers when selecting and purchasing fruit and vegetables.
Answer
Consumers have various options when selecting and purchasing fruit and vegetables:
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Range of Fresh Fruit and Vegetables:
- Consumers can choose from a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables.
- Options range from whole fruits like apples and bananas to various vegetables such as carrots and lettuce.
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Pre-packed vs Loose Options:
- Fruit and vegetables can be purchased either pre-packed or loose. Pre-packed options may offer convenience but can sometimes lead to additional waste.
- Loose produce encourages selection of specific items based on individual preferences and needs.
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Seasonality and Local Sourcing:
- Consumers can consider seasonal fruits and vegetables, which may offer better flavor and nutritional value.
- Local sourcing supports community farmers and often provides fresher options.
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Organic vs Conventional:
- Shoppers may choose between organic and conventionally grown produce based on personal beliefs, health considerations, and environmental impact.
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Frozen and Processed Options:
- Alternatives like frozen or processed vegetables are also available, which can be beneficial for long-term storage and convenience.
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Special Offers and Promotions:
- Retailers often provide special promotions which can influence purchasing decisions.
Step 2
Give details of the nutritional significance and the contribution to the diet of either fruit or vegetables.
Answer
Focusing on Fruit:
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Nutritional Significance:
- Fruits are an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C and dietary fiber.
- They provide antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
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Contribution to Diet:
- Fruits help increase the intake of essential nutrients, which are pivotal for various bodily functions.
- Regular consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers.
- They assist in maintaining a healthy weight due to their low energy density and high fiber content.
Step 3
Give an account of Vitamin A under each of the following headings:
Answer
Biological Functions
Vitamin A is crucial for several biological functions:
- It helps in maintaining healthy vision, particularly in low-light conditions.
- Supports immune system function by maintaining the integrity of skin and mucosal cells.
- Essential for cellular communication and gene expression.
Effects of Deficiency
Deficiency of Vitamin A can lead to various health issues:
- Night blindness and other vision problems.
- Increased susceptibility to infections due to a weakened immune response.
- In severe cases, it can result in xerophthalmia, a condition that can lead to blindness.
Properties
Vitamin A has several noteworthy properties:
- It is fat-soluble, meaning it can be stored in the body's fatty tissues.
- Stable in organic solvents but can degrade with prolonged exposure to heat and light.
- Plays a role as an anti-oxidant, which can help in preventing cellular damage.