Menu Lifestyle
Updated: Jan. 4, 2023
When it comes to grocery shopping, especially with little ones in tow, the experience can range from exhausting to downright chaotic. With the potential for tantrums and complaints, making it to the checkout lane without losing your cool is already a win. But just when you think you’re in the clear, you’re bombarded by a display of candy and junk food that can easily unravel your last bit of patience.
This is precisely why the junk food-laden checkout aisles are in desperate need of a makeover. How about introducing items that we actually need? Research from the Center for Science in the Public Interest reveals that a staggering 90% of the food found at grocery checkouts is unhealthy. Meanwhile, Today highlights that grocery stores with “family-friendly” checkout options are well-received by parents. For instance, Raley’s, a grocery chain with locations in California and Nevada, has implemented such lanes and reports positive feedback. “We’re finding that our customers desire more of these options,” said company spokesperson Lisa Grant. “We understand the distractions that treats can create for parents as they navigate the checkout.”
The demand for healthier options is becoming increasingly clear. A petition is currently circulating online, urging the Meijer grocery chain to incorporate more nutritious food selections. The petition states, “We’ve all stood in line—exhausted, hungry, and confronted with a wall of candy, soda, and chips. Retailers are aware that we spend significant time at checkout and are banking on our impulse purchases. With rising rates of obesity and diabetes linked to poor nutrition, why are we still promoting unhealthy foods here?”
Moreover, the petition points out that harmful magazines and tabloids, usually found in close proximity to children, also need to be reconsidered. It calls for a change in both the food and reading material, requesting healthier products like organic fruits, vegetables, whole-grain snacks, gluten-free options, and healthy drinks.
But it’s not just about accommodating parents. Everyone could benefit from a more practical selection at the checkout. How often have you reached the register only to realize you forgot a simple yet essential item? Things like batteries, lip balm, pain relievers, or hand sanitizer would be incredibly convenient to have on hand at the end of your shopping journey.
As the petition suggests, while Meijer does offer some non-food items, expanding that selection would be a fantastic idea. In fact, I’m fortunate to live near a grocery store that already embraces this concept, and it has made me a loyal customer. When I shop with my kids, I have less stress at checkout because they offer several lanes free from junk food. Instead, I can find kids’ books, nutritious snacks, and even hand soap—all without a soda in sight. Yes, I can say “no” to junk food, but after a long shopping trip with two energetic kids, it’s a relief to have one less battle when they spot candy.
This is why I’ll continue to support stores that prioritize healthier options and practicality. Here’s hoping that the Meijer petition gains traction and that they take action. While no one really needs a Snickers bar, we could all use a few more convenient items in that checkout lane—like a nice bottle of wine!
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In summary, the checkout lane should reflect a more practical approach—offering healthier food options and essential items that benefit all shoppers, not just parents. By advocating for these changes, we can help make grocery shopping a less stressful and more enjoyable experience for everyone.