Eating fruit and veg can help prevent asthma and obesity

Fewer than one in 10 youngsters aged between four and six eat the daily recommended level of five portions a day, a study showed.

Health experts are highlighting the problem as the region's School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme is launched.

Kent pupils will be given one piece of fruit or veg each day from 14 October.

Studies have shown these foods can help prevent cancer, heart disease, obesity and asthma Dr Mike Gill

The South East Public Health group said the results were based on children's food diaries which were kept for one week in September in a survey of 10 schools across Kent.

National surveys found one in 10 children eat no fruit, with children in low-income groups eating less fresh produce than others in higher-income groups, health officers said.

Dr Mike Gill, regional public health director, said: "Studies have shown these foods can help prevent cancer, heart disease, obesity and asthma in later life.

"Kent and Sussex will soon become the first counties in the South East to launch the School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme.

"It will not only provide opportunities for children to try different foods, but will also enable them to learn about healthy eating too - something that may stay with them for many years."