In view of the ongoing calls for attention to healthier eating so as to reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases, the man and woman in the street were asked whether their go-to-meal would be fresh produce or fast food and the reason for their
choices. Their comments follow:
Seeram Singh, vegetable vendor – ‘Well I like fresh fruits and vegetables better because they are more nutritious, while fast food has calories and is unhealthy. Why would I want to buy food out when I can cook fresh things that are far better? Plus when I cook fresh produce I will put in the ingredients I want.’
Paul Harrison, labourer – ‘I rather fresh produce because it is cleaner and you will be able to cook it the way you like it. But, you know I understand that sometimes people are busy and have no other choice but to buy some food on the road. Nothing is wrong with that, but my choice however will always be fresh produce.’
Mark Morgan, businessman – ‘Fresh fruits and vegetable all the way, because it is healthy and something good for you. I would even advise others to try more fresh organic produce. For example, turmeric and ginger which help your body fight off infections and also help with heart problems. So I definitely will call on more Guyanese to eat fresh produce.’
Jerry Persaud, vendor – ‘I prefer fresh vegetables and fruits, because it is organic and does not have fertilizer to harm you. Fast food too unhealthy and I would like people out there to follow the trend to support the local farmers who are doing a good service.’
Nora Samaroo, self-employed – ‘Fresh produce is my choice because it is healthier and rich with nutrients. It also provides you with lots of benefits and makes you live longer. When you eat fast food it taste nice yes, but it is not really too good for you.’
Travis Shuman, public sector worker – ‘I like fresh food because it gives you more energy and is healthy for you. Fast food is nice yes, but it has less benefits and can cost more in the long run. People should eat more fresh produce for their own good.’
Vani Narine, fruits vendor – ‘Fresh produce is what I choose, because it is healthy for your body. For example, Soursop is rich in vitamin C and B and even helps with asthma, fever and stomach problems. It also helps with preventing cancer. And that is why I would call on others to eat fresh produce rather than fast food.’
Hardai Muir, fruits vendor – ‘Fresh produce is my choice and it is better for your body. Fast food ain’t too healthy and you don’t even know what people cooking to give you sometimes. Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and grow your own gardens.’
Jennifer Barton, pensioner – ‘Fast food is my choice because I work very late and don’t have time to prepare food from scratch every day. Although I know fresh vegetables and fruits are better, my choice is fast food because, I don’t want to leave the pot on and burn the food if I attempt to cook after a hard day’s work.’
Steve Ignatius, farmer – ‘The fast thing is good for business people, who don’t want to lose time, but fresh produce like bora, karilla and cabbage are better. Despite all that we must utilize our local fruits and vegetables to have a nutritious meal. Nothing is wrong with fast food for those on the go, but that is the cause for many people dying before their time. Yes you might be able to afford to dine at one of these fancy restaurants and enjoy yourself, but at the end of the day, it is better to eat healthy.’
