Discarded fruit and vegetable parts offer overlooked fibre, researchers say

Researchers at King’s College London examined 12 raw fruit and vegetables and found that many commonly discarded parts contained more fibre than the portions usually eaten. Butternut squash skin and seeds provided 9.25g per 100g, while watermelon rind supplied 2.10g. Broccoli stalks also contained fibre, though less than the florets. The researchers are encouraging greater use of suitable peels, cores, seeds and stalks.

Dietitian Kirsten Jackson said produce should be washed thoroughly and fibre intake increased gradually to limit bloating. She suggested using pineapple cores in smoothies but advised against eating the tough skins. The British Nutrition Foundation warned that green potatoes and rhubarb leaves contain toxic compounds, while tough stalks and seeds may be unsuitable for young children.

The BBC report cites official figures showing that only 4% of adults meet the recommended daily fibre intake of 30g. Acceptance remains a practical issue: during a nine-week university canteen trial, root-to-tip dishes accounted for a third of daily hot-menu sales, but their buyers were less likely to finish meals than conventional-menu diners.