Fresh fruits and vegetables at store entrances may improve diets
A study found that placing fruits and vegetables near store entrances in supermarkets increases sales of these items, with stores selling around 2,525 extra portions per week. This simple change can help break the 'junk-food cycle' and encourage healthier food choices, especially among families who depend on these stores for groceries.
A recent study in England found that supermarkets that moved fruits and vegetables to the entrance sold more of these items. The study, which looked at 36 supermarkets, found that stores that made this change sold around 2,525 extra portions of fruits and vegetables per week. The study used real shopping data from loyalty cards to track purchases. It found that when fresh produce is placed at the front of the store, it becomes part of the shopping habit. The effect was more pronounced in stores that moved produce more than 14 meters forward. Some stores sold over 3,600 extra portions per week after the change. The study followed 580 women and found that those who shopped in stores with the new layout had better diet scores after six months. Even small increases in fruit and vegetable intake can improve health. The study's findings suggest that small environmental changes can support healthier choices, especially where it is needed most. The results showed little change in food waste during the first few months, indicating that the increase in buying did not lead to major waste problems.
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