Introduction The ageing of the European population raises questions concerning the growing incidence of chronic diseases. Improving population health status, by acting on one of its most important determinants, that is, nutrition, was the target of the PNNS (Nutrition Health National Program) launched in 2001 in France. This study aimed to examine the individual and territorial characteristics associated with the PNNS guideline to eat: « at least five fruits and vegetables every day » (R5FV).

Methods The third wave of the SIRS cohort interviewed a representative sample of the general population of Paris metropolitan area (3084 adults) in 2009–2010 about its knowledge of the R5VF. Adherence to this guideline, and reasons for non-adherence, were questioned too. Regression models analysed factors associated with non-knowledge of the guideline.

Results The vast majority of the population (98%) was familiar with the R5VF but only 50% adhered to it. Men (aOR=2.58), foreigners (aOR=5.53), people who had never worked (aOR=6.66), those who had only primary level education (aOR=3.47), those residing in underprivileged neighbourhoods (aOR=2.05) were more likely to ignore it. Among those who knew it, reasons declared for not adhering were: too complicated to manage (28%), too expensive (26%) and not desiring (17%).

Conclusion This study outlined individual and territorial inequalities in the reception of PNNS nutritional messages related to consumption of 5 F&V a day. Consideration of individuals' demographic, socioeconomic and residence characteristics can identify population groups that necessitate to be targeted in order that current nutritional know-how reaches all people, especially the disadvantaged.