Yorkshire quiz is food for thought (From Ilkley Gazette)

Yorkshire quiz is food for thought

9:00am Tuesday 15th January 2013 in Local news

No-one in Yorkshire taking part in a food survey was able to answer all the questions correctly.

A total of 2,000 adults took part in the Department of Health’s Food IQ quiz, which had 12 questions.

Only three in ten people in Yorkshire could correctly answer four.

The Department of Health found that despite most people wanting to improve their health, the majority had no idea about the level of “hidden nasties” in their meals.

The majority did not realise a pre-packed ham and cheese sandwich had more salt than a chicken tikka masala ready-meal.

Six in ten people did not realise a small pepperoni pizza had more saturated fat than fish and chips, and 60 per cent did not know the daily maximum amount of salt recommended is one teaspoon.

The low scores came despite 84 per cent of those involved in the study saying they would like to be healthier.

TV chef Ainsley Harriott, a Change4Life campaign ambassador, said: “It’s really important to be aware of what hidden nasties may be in your food.

“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 and check the label.”