Fast Fruit Becoming A Main Course

The federal government’s new dietary guidelines suggest eating five to thirteen servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Fruit consumption in the nation’s restaurants rose 9% between 2003 and 2004, according to market-research firm NPD Group.

The increase of demand for fruits leads to a dramatic increase supply of fast fruits in the food market. Wendy’s international Inc. plans to go nationwide with fruit bowls that come in two sizes--one as a main course; the other as a dessert-sized cup.(http://www.sacbee.com/content/shopping/drivethru/story/12350325p-13213512c.html) McDonald’s Corp. this spring plans to sell a fruit-and-walnut salad(http://www.heraldtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050220/ZNYT01/502200904). And in May, IHOP Corp. is expected to introduce entrée-sized fruit plates for adults and smaller versions for children.

The significant demand also results in a high price of fast fruit. Wendy’s 8.9-ounce fruit bowl is priced at $4.19, about the same as the chain’s premium salads.