British families have revealed their ultimate favourite vegetables – with broccoli and the humble pea coming out on top.

The pair took joint top spot, beating other classic heavyweights including the spud and carrot to top spot in a poll of 1,000 parents of kids aged 6 to 16.

However, celery and asparagus were least liked by families across the country – with kale bottom of the pile.

While the Brussels sprout was liked by only six per cent, despite almost half (46 per cent) dishing them up at Christmas.

The research follows I’m a Celebrity winner Sam Thompson’s behind the scenes visit to the Birds Eye pea operation, covering Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, where he was shown the process of harvesting and freezing the peas – an experience which left him barely able to control his excitement.

Speaking in partnership with the brand, which commissioned the poll, Sam said: “It’s no surprise to see the pea is right up there as an ultimate family favourite – I love peas.

“Seeing the pea harvest, the freezing process, and the passion and knowledge of the teams, was an eye-opening experience.

“I don’t think many people would know that these peas are individually given a good old squeeze to check if they’re ready to be picked.”

Other family favourites in the top 10 were green beans, cauliflower and the corn on the cob.

Of the 95 per cent who buy frozen vegetables, peas were the most purchased (60 per cent), followed by sweetcorn (40 per cent) and carrots (27 per cent).

When asked how they choose their frozen veg over half (51 per cent) said it was down to value for money and nearly half (42 per cent) bought it for its quality.

Eight in 10 (85 per cent) of those polled via OnePoll believed it to be important for children to try new vegetables – with 31 per cent believing sweeter tasting options were most palatable for them.

While 47 per cent think it’s important everyone learns where their veg comes from and 77 per cent felt it crucial to grow them sustainably.

Sophie Simms, from Birds Eye, added: “Our survey shows that what goes on behind the scenes in veg production is really important for families.

“Quality and sweetness really do reign supreme in what people are looking for and they want to know they’re getting great value for money.

“It was a pleasure to show Sam our harvest and freezing processes and we’re really pleased he got a glimpse into the care and precision that our farmers and teams put into producing our peas.”

FAMILIES TOP 10 MOST LOVED VEGETABLES

1. Broccoli / Peas
2. Potatoes
3. Sweetcorn
4. Carrots – cooked
5. Cucumber
6. Tomatoes
7. Corn on the cob
8. Peppers
9. Carrots – raw
10. Onions