Home food environment influences the achievement of the recommended daily vegetable intake of 350 g in Japan

Background “Health Japan 21 (Tertiary)” recommends a daily vegetable intake of 350 g for Japanese people; however, the actual average vegetable intake has fallen short of the recommended amount by approximately 70 g/day since the last 10 years. This study aimed to determine the home food environment, including cooking responsibility, of the population achieving a vegetable intake of 350 g/day. Methods We used the weekday one-day weighted dietary records for 1,036 men and women aged 20–79 years from the Sukoyaka Health Survey (2019–2020). Participants were categorized based on a cutoff of 350 g/day for vegetable intake. The home food environment of each participant was analyzed for significance using the χ ² test or logistic regression analysis. Food groups and nutrient intakes were tested for significance using a general linear model in each participant. Results Compared with participants consuming less than 350 g/day, those consuming 350 g/day or more were more likely to cook at home and less likely to use ready-made meals. Among these participants, men were more likely to have a spouse responsible for cooking, whereas women were more likely to be responsible for cooking for themselves. Additionally, men among participants consuming 350 g/day or more were more likely to start dinner before 8 pm and eat with someone. Both men and women among these participants had significantly higher intakes of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber in terms of nutrient intake, as well as seasonings and spices as part of food group intake. Conclusions The home food environment, including cooking responsibility, that contributes to achieving a vegetable intake of 350 g/day differs between men and women, and depends on women preparing home cooked meals. Therefore, it may be pertinent to implement measures that support a home food environment, which is not dependent on women preparing home cooked meals. Trial registration: Not applicable