Brits Do Not Know The True Content Of Diet, Food IQ Quiz Reveals (PHOTOS)

Brits 'Do Not Know True Content Of Diet'

People in England do not know what their diet contains and are surprised at the level of "hidden nasties" in their favourite foods, a survey has revealed.

Two thousand adults took part in the Food IQ quiz with over three quarters (77%) of them scoring 50% and under.

The survey, backed by the Department of Health's Change4Life campaign, showed that people still do not realise how much salt, sugar and saturated fats are contained in the food they eat every day.

Just three people - less than 1% of those surveyed - correctly answered all 12 questions, while one in 10 (11%) people could only answer four questions correctly.

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The majority of people (85%) do not realise that a pre-packed ham and cheese sandwich has more salt than a chicken tikka masala ready meal or a packet of ready salted crisps.

Six in 10 (63%) people do not realise that a small pepperoni pizza has more saturated fat than fish and chips, and 60% of people do not know that the daily maximum amount of salt recommended is only one teaspoon.

The low scores come despite the fact that most people (84%) surveyed say they would like to be healthier.

The research goes on to show that factors such as cost and time are additional barriers when it comes to choosing the healthiest options.

Seven in 10 (69%) people prioritise price when shopping for food, one in five (21%) choose items that are easiest to prepare, and more than half (51%) choose items they are sure the whole family will eat.

Ainsley Harriott, Change4Life campaign ambassador, said: "It's really important to be aware of what hidden nasties may be in your food, and to know what you're putting in your or your family's bodies.

"Some of our favourite meals, takeaways and snacks contain high amounts of salt, sugar and saturated fat - it's our job to make sure that we know where they are hiding.

"But it is possible to eat well on a budget, and you don't have to give up your family favourites or treats just to be food smart.

"There are simple changes you can make which will help: try to prepare food at home, cut down on saturated fat, swap high sugar options for lower ones, watch out for hidden salt in foods and check the label on the food you buy."

The Food IQ Quiz is available on the Change4Life Facebook page now.

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