Heróis da Fruta project improves student nutrition in Portugal

The ‘Heróis da Fruta’ (Fruit Heroes) project, a collaboration between the University of Lisbon’s Institute of Environmental Health and the Portuguese Association Against Childhood Obesity (APCOI), has reported significant improvements in children's dietary habits during the 2024/2025 academic year.

In the Beja district, specifically within the Odemira municipality, 100% of participating students tried a fruit or vegetable for the first time. Additionally, the percentage of children bringing healthy snacks to school rose from 66.7% to 94.4%, while daily fruit consumption at school increased from 55.6% to 88.9%.

In Madeira, the program saw 68.4% of participating students try new produce for the first time. The proportion of students meeting daily fruit and vegetable consumption goals also increased from 82.7% to 88.3%. The project in Madeira included planting fruit trees on school grounds across several municipalities, including Funchal and Calheta.

APCOI President Mário Silva noted that the five-week program uses playful dynamics to overcome resistance to new foods. The association is inviting schools across Portugal to register for the next edition by October 31.