Healthy Eating Shapes North American Shopping Habits
Across North America, families place the health of loved ones at the top of their priorities, ahead of inflation, economic stress, and housing costs. In a recent ShopperView study by the trade association of manufacturers and distributors, the 13th edition, roughly two thirds of respondents say they try to eat healthier, and even with rising prices they do not abandon healthy meals. Among these households, more than seven in ten want to foster a healthy diet for everyone in the home.
Healthy eating is linked to present and future well being, the study notes. About 34 percent of respondents say new products fail to meet their needs, especially when they seek affordable healthy options and foods with fewer processing steps and more natural ingredients. The takeaway for industry is clear: companies should keep innovating to align with this health‑forward market.
Fresh produce and seasonal items have taken a central role in purchasing decisions. Nine in ten shoppers say choosing local and seasonal foods helps diversify the diet and supports better health. A separate survey tied to a major grocery retailer confirms that proximity and a broad assortment, including fresh produce, make it easier to maintain a healthy eating pattern that might otherwise be harder to sustain.
In the same framing, the consumer trajectory clearly points toward well being. Healthy eating is a central pillar as the retail sector emphasizes ease of adopting new habits. The firm aims to make it simple to choose well by offering a wide, complete assortment with a strong emphasis on fresh, local, and seasonal items.
Out-of-Home Consumption
Despite these trends, out-of-home dining and weekend habits show distinct patterns. About 67 percent allow themselves indulgences and do not monitor every bite as closely. Roughly 64 percent seek flavorful meals even if not perfectly healthy. Weekend routines reveal that 74 percent enjoy an appetizer, 57 percent go out for drinks in the afternoon, and 55 percent head out for drinks in the evening.
Nevertheless, health considerations still guide choices. Fifty-two percent look for local venues offering health benefits, another 52 percent prefer lighter dishes where the main ingredient shines, and 41 percent seek meals that aid in weight management.
Lower Fat Options and Eco Considerations
What counts as healthful or weight-friendly in shoppers’ eyes? Among respondents, 36 percent associate this with lower saturated fats, 29 percent with reduced sugar, 24 percent with increased fruit and vegetables, 18 percent with zero alcohol, and 17 percent with organic ingredients.