Jericho, New York, U.S.A. – Upscale grocery stores have seen a rise in visibility as they’re being promoted on social media.
Despite inflation, 78% of shoppers globally will pay more for products with natural and clean label claims, according to a 2023 report by the website Food Navigator USA.
But are people being easily influenced? There are more options for good quality food that are not as expensive as these products being advertised on social media.
The implications these high-end markets have on the consumer limit accessibility.
These kinds of grocery stores have been continuing to emerge in recent years.
Comparing one upscale market, Happier Grocery in New York City, to the Stop & Shop supermarket chain in the Northeast, the cost of a bag of baby carrots at Happier Grocery is $12.50 and at Stop and Shop, it is $1.89.
These stores sustain their business despite the high prices because people feel there is no other option to get high-quality foods.
“Half of the time, the high-end stores sell higher-quality products, but the other half is just marketing and not false advertising,” said Hunter Stoler, a certified health coach in New York.
Stoler, who is known for sharing sustainable weight loss tips on social media, discussed healthy grocery shopping in an interview with Youth Journalism International.
There are affordable options that are the same as the pricier option, according to Stoler.
“Erewhon sells smoothies for almost $20 each when you can make a smoothie at home using high-quality protein powder, milk, ice, and frozen fruit for 1/4 of the price,” said Stoler. “You can find those products at your local store, and it could also be organic.”
Marion Nestle is an American molecular biologist, nutritionist, and public health advocate. She was a Paulette Goddard Professor of Nutrition, Food Studies and Public Health, Emerita, at New York University.
She said the government should be involved with the problem of an increase in expensive food stores.
“Governments could enact policies to encourage stores to open and stay open in low-income communities,” said Nestle in an interview. “And to teach kids about nutrition and health.”
Supermarket chain Whole Foods is known for its natural and organic options, but high prices come with that.
Kayla Levy, a student at Jericho Senior High School and a Whole Foods customer, said, “Prices at Whole Foods are definitely a bit more expensive than other stores. But in my mind, I justify them by the fact that the fruit and vegetables appear to be better preserved, more organic, and also locally grown.”
Jessy Siegmann is a Reporter at Youth Journalism International.
