A shock statistic has revealed UK consumers throw away around 97 million pieces of fruit and vegetables every week.

The survey, which questioned more than 1,000 people, also suggested that shop workers, chefs and bankers were the people least likely to eat 5-a-day.

The annual cost of the 97m wasted fruit and veg is estimated to be £1.5 billion, the study by drinks brand Vie Shots, revealed.

Around 40 per cent of people were confused over what actually made up a portion that counted towards their 5-a-day.

Even among those working in the catering industry, 52 per cent did not know what represented a portion.

The survey claimed that on average, UK consumers are eating just three portions of fruit and veg a day.

London was the UK's least health conscious region, with 74 per cent of City workers not eating 5-a-day, followed by Scotland (72 per cent) and the North West (72 per cent).

There was also uncertainly about what foods would contribute to five a day. More than eight out of 10 thought a potato counted as one or more portions,

Those aged 16-24 were least likely to eat their 5-a-day - just 18 per cent managed their quota compared to 44 per cent of over-55s.