HELSINKI, Jan. 9 (Xinhua) -- The eating habits of Finland's adult men and women have become increasingly divergent, with women eating healthier, but both fall short of the health guidelines, a survey published on Wednesday showed.

The survey was carried out by National Institute of Health and Wellbeing at five-year intervals.

It indicated that adult Finns eat far too much red or processed meat, with 79 percent of men exceeding the recommended half-a-kilo red or processed meat per week, and 26 percent of women consuming the meat in excess.

The official Finnish recommended diet includes at least half a kilo of vegetables, fruit or berries every day, but only 14 percent of men and 22 percent of women meet that requirement.

Progress was confirmed in the consumption of fiber and vitamin D. Saccarose intake declined, the institute press release stated.

Thirty-five percent of Finns eat too much fat, and 70 percent get too little carbohydrates and fiber.

The supply of protein matches the norms. Most of it is animal protein from meat, fish or milk. Nine out of 10 Finnish adults get too much salt.

The survey revealed extensive use of commercial food supplements. Over half of men and two thirds of women use them. Research director Liisa Valsta noted in the press release that such usage is mostly unnecessary, versatile selection of food is recommended instead.

The survey applied EU criteria and was carried in 50 localities among people aged 18-74. Enditem

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