Primary school pupils in Scotland have significantly increased their intake of fresh produce, according to a study for the nation’s Executive.

The study looked at the impact of the Scottish Executive's drive to provide all primary one and two pupils with free fresh fruit three times each week.

The Executive said 90 per cent believe giving primary one and two pupils free fresh fruit is enhancing their eating habits. And 60 per cent are reported to have said that pupils are eating more fresh fruit and vegetables at lunchtime, as a result of the scheme.

Health minister Andy Kerr hailed the findings, but insisted work to improve the nation's health must go on: "We have embarked upon a mission to improve our health as a nation and children's diets are central to that. It is now working, but we need to continue our efforts and ensure that everyone, particularly parents, play their role."

Education minister Peter Peacock added that the long-term benefits could be great: "By introducing these healthy tastes at an early age we can encourage them to follow active, healthy lifestyles that will benefit them for the rest of their lives," he added.