Woolworths' big trolley move could change how you shop

The supermarket giant has launched a pair of tools to reverse a concerning trend.

Amid evidence of declining health-conscious choices at checkouts across the country, Woolworths is introducing a new product designed to help Aussie customers make healthier grocery selections.

The retailer's $35 trolley divider separates shopping carts into core food groups, in line with the Australian Government's Dietary Guidelines, to help customers understand how to shop for a balanced diet.

Woolworths food tracker trolley dividers
Woolworths HealthyLife Trolley Dividers break up food groups into fruit and veg, grains, meat, dairy and 'sometimes' food. Source: Supplied

Aussies unhealthier than ever

A recent survey carried out by HealthyLife, which examined data from 900 million transactions at Woolies, revealed Australians are falling short of meeting the recommended intake of essential food groups. Notably, the study highlighted a dramatic decline in vegetable consumption, showing that Aussies are purchasing a mere half of the recommended daily servings of vegetables.

Simone Austin, dietitian and Chief Health Officer at HealthyLife, says the company has teamed up with Woolworths to help Aussies with the necessary tools to make healthier choices at the supermarket. "We know grocery shopping can sometimes be overwhelming," she said. "With so many options to choose from, achieving a nutritionally balanced basket can be a challenge."

Woolworths Food Tracker in Everyday Rewards app
Woolworths is also introducing a food tracker within the Everyday Rewards App to guide customers on salt and sugar consumption. Source: Supplied

Food tracker added to Woolies app

Ms Austin went on to explain the trolley divider has five labelled compartments for each of the core food groups, alongside a smaller divider dedicated to "sometimes" foods. In conjunction with the dividers, Woolworths has also introduced a nutrient tracker feature within the Everyday Rewards app, allowing shoppers to monitor their purchases of added sugar, salt and saturated fat during their grocery shop.

She hopes the two tools in tandem will empower Australians to make improved choices. "Customers will be able to assess the food groups they are purchasing and if they need to, add more foods like fruit, veggies and grains to provide enough healthy meals and snacks for their household," she said.

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