Grocery Store Tours

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The role of the RD is vastly expanding as more RD’s prove to the job industry that they have the skills needed to promote and help with wellness in a variety of settings. One specific area that RD’s are becoming more and more common in are super markets. RD’s are often utilized to give grocery store tours. This is a hands on approach that can be fun for not only the dietitian, but for the shoppers as well. These kinds of tours can appeal to a shopper of any age, gender, or race. In this setting the RD can provide nutrition education on topics such as healthy options, nutrition fact labels, and ingredient lists. These tours are often hands on with customers and promote healthy lifestyle choices. These dietitians in this role are directly related to improving overall public health. The effects of their positive impact can be seen right there in their own communities! Talk about a rewarding job. They can even have an impact on what kinds of foods the supermarkets bring in and other nutrition based education programs in their communities.
There are some research studies being done to show the most effective strategies related to improved consumer health. There have been studies that have shown affordability, availability, and in-store interactive healthy food option promotions can influence consumers in a positive way. As we move into an era of more consumers being health focused, we can expect to see more dietitians involved in roles throughout supermarkets. Some things that the RD involved in grocery tour stores should consider include; store marketing strategies, demographics of the area, and seasonal events/activities occurring at the time of the tour. When taking these things into consideration the RD can ensure that the tour relates to the consumer directly.

TR
Hosting Supermarket Tours. Ruhs, Barbara. Today's Dietitian, Volume 17, No.11. P. 40.

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