Meat bosses have been given the go-ahead to use the government’s 5 A DAY logo on recipe booklets and leaflets to promote pigmeat.
The move by the Department of Health marks the first time the logo has been allowed to be used on a publication where fruit and vegetables are not the main ingredient.
The Meat and Livestock Commission is intending to use the logo for its promotional activities with the British Pig Executive.
The logo will be used across a number of BPEX recipe booklets to denote the pork recipes that contain at least one of the recommended daily portions (80g) of fruit or vegetables.
Tony Goodger, MLC foodservice trade manager, said: “The MLC supports the need for consumers to eat a variety of at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day as part of a healthy, balanced diet and this is reflected in our recipe development work.
“In addition, all of the recipes developed for foodservice on behalf of BPEX contain no additional salt or sugar and no unnecessary fat.”
Maureen Strong, human nutrition manager, added: “Not only is red meat one of the best sources of easily absorbed iron, it enhances the uptake of iron from other foods, such as cereals, vegetables and pulses. The benefits of consuming red meat can be optimised by a diet containing fruit and vegetables.”