Video: “Marketplace Makeover”, Learning How To Shop Smart & Healthy

[syndicaster id=’6260169′]

COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – A group of shoppers filled the isles of the Columbus Kroger, learning how to shop for healthy foods.

“People get to the grocery store and they’re so confused because there is just so many options, so we thought it would be a great way to come to the grocery store, walk through the isles and just point out some techniques for making healthy choices in the grocery,” said Amanda Dahl, registered and licensed Dietitian at MUW.

It’s called Marketplace Makeover. A grant pays for Mississippi University for Women’s Passport to Wellness Program, which teaches people to make healthy food choices.

Dahl leads the group through the grocery store, pointing out what foods are good to shop for. She says all the work actually begins before you get your shopping cart.

“Taking a little time to meal plan, making your list, not coming to the grocery store hungry, all of those things are going to help you be successful once you get to the grocery store,” said Dahl.

The small but important tips seem to be paying off for Janie Shields.

“I’m always in those inner isles and she told us today that it’s best to shop in the outside isles,” said Shields, a participant in the program.

Many think shopping for healthy foods is expensive but Shields says she’s learned how to shop healthy on a budget.

“Buying all of the packaged items like with the salad, it’s $4 for a package but it’s only $1 dollar or $2 to get an actual plant of kale, of a leaf of kale is way cheaper than buying the bag and you’re getting so much more bang for your buck,” added Shields.

Savings that in the end, could mean a longer and healthier life.
Participants were also given meal planners.

They signed up through The W’s Office of Outreach and Innovation.