National Nutrition Month 2025, themed “Vegetables and Fruits: Always Keep You Healthy,” was officially launched yesterday (June 11) at the Waters Edge Hotel, Battaramulla, under the patronage of the Ministry of Health.

Celebrated annually in June, this year’s campaign emphasizes four key messages:

Eat at least two types of vegetables, one leafy green, and two types of fruits daily.

Prepare fruits and vegetables in ways that preserve their nutritional value.

Choose fruits and vegetables as healthy snacks whenever possible.

Buy local and affordable produce to support healthy eating.

Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, speaking at the event, highlighted a growing concern: children are increasingly turning away from fruits and vegetables, despite widespread awareness efforts in schools and preschools.

He stressed the need for a collective shift in attitudes—calling on parents, schools, and the wider community to actively promote healthier dietary habits.

Dr. Jayatissa also emphasized the role of media in transforming public awareness, urging both state and private media to consistently integrate accurate nutritional information across all types of programming—not just in news or educational segments.

He concluded by underscoring that nutrition is not solely a health sector issue, but one that requires cross-ministerial collaboration to achieve long-term impact.

Also in attendance were Health Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe, UNICEF Country Representative Christian Skoog, senior health officials, nutritionists, and representatives from various government and non-governmental organizations.