Differences between men and women extend into the produce aisle - 21 News Now, More Local News for Youngstown, Ohio -

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Fruits and vegetables should make up a large portion of our daily diet. In fact, USDA recommendations suggest men and women fill half their plate with produce at each meal.

However, when it comes to filling their carts men and women often differ on what type of produce they're tossing in.

"Men are more likely to look for things that are more convenient. So, they are more likely to eat canned and frozen, dried or even 100% juice in addition to fresh where as women are a little more inclined to have fresh fruits and vegetables," said Produce for Better Health Foundation President Elizabeth Pivonka.

A recent study conducted by the Produce for Better Health Foundation looked at produce purchasing behaviors between men and women. Not only do the sexes differ in the isles, they differ at home when it comes to eating fruits and veggies.

"Overall, both men and women were eating fruits and vegetables because they like the taste of them. They were a part of a healthy diet. They ate them to stay healthy, but then you start to see some differences after that where men are more likely to eat them to get energy and women are more likely to eat them to lose weight or to manage their weight," said Pivonka.

Pivonka says the study also shows men often forget to buy fruits and vegetables compared to female shoppers. Although, men find shopping reminders, like ads and text messages, more useful.

"It is important to understand their purchasing decisions so that you can make sure that fruits and vegetables are available where they shop," said Pivonka.