Are imported or domestic fruits better?

Answer:

Many people prefer eating imported fruits because they believe that they are tastier, more nutritious, and better for their health compared to domestic fruits. However, this may not always be true. In reality, domestic fruits can be more suitable for the health and physical condition of people living in Vietnam since the plants in a particular region are best suited to nourish the animals, including humans, in that ecosystem.

Even though some type of imported fruits may have higher levels of nutrients compared to local fruits, their nutrient level may exceed the requirements of the residents in that specific region. In addition, imported fruits are often harvested off-season and undergo long transportation periods, whereas local fruits are grown in-season and do not go through rigorous preservation stages, resulting in their freshest possible quality.

Mixed berries. Illustration photo by Freepik

Furthermore, based on the Nutritional Composition Table of Vietnam released by the National Institute of Nutrition, numerous types of imported fruits have lower nutrient content compared to local fruits. For example, the calcium content in a local apple is twice as high as that in an imported apple, with the former having 44 milligrams compared to only 19 milligrams in the latter. The vitamin C content in a local apple is 24 milligrams, also significantly higher than the amount of 7 milligrams found in an imported apple.

Therefore, it is advised to prioritize the consumption of local fruits, which offer several health benefits. Opting for locally grown seasonal fruits not only supports local farmers and is cost-effective but also provides an abundance of nutrients that are well-suited to the local population’s health needs.

Imported fruits can still be a good source of nutrition to diversify your meals, but it is important not to overlook the benefits of local fruits.

Dr. Dang Ngoc Hung

Director of the Nutrition Research and Consulting Institute