TOO MUCH KETCHUP, TOO FEW BRUSSEL SPROUTS

Nearly half of the vegetables and legumes available in the U.S. in 2013 were either tomatoes or potatoes, according to USDA. Lettuce came in third. But the vegetables that are available don't really match what we're supposed to be eating—federal dietary guidelines prescribe a varied mix that includes dark leafy greens, orange and yellow vegetables, and beans—along with all those potatoes and tomatoes. Although the USDA report focuses on the limited variety of vegetables available to American shoppers, other agency data suggest that the country simply doesn't offer enough vegetables, period. A 2010 study estimated that the U.S. vegetable supply would need to increase by 70% — almost entirely in dark leafy greens, orange vegetables and legumes — in order for Americans to meet recommended daily allowances.

Source: NPR, 9/19/15, Vegetables