Free Yourself from Free Samples
When you see little carts set up with mini toasters and microwaves handing out bits and pieces of goodies, you’ve entered the realm of free samples. This tactic is widely implemented by grocers to increase products sales because it works wonderfully. Free sample stations are great ways to demonstrate the versatility of certain products, but how often are the featured foods healthful or nutrient-dense? How often are they full of vitamins, minerals, lean protein, healthy fats and fiber? How often do they feature whole, unprocessed foods that are naturally good for you? The products grocers generally hand out to promote sales are convenience items, ones that shouldn’t be on your shopping list if you're trying to eat healthier.
Battle
plan: If
the product is free of trans fats, made with whole grains or free of added sweeteners, enjoy a little nibble. Use your label-reading skills to determine if it’s a healthful item you can pick up
during your next grocery trip. Look at the amount of protein, calories, fiber,
added sugars, salt, and types of fats to assess how healthful the food might
be.
(Boy do I fall for this one! I sample and usually buy without reading the full label. Also, how sanitary is this item, the cooking equipment and even the cook? If it's in the bakery/deli dept and is placed out in a 'covered' tray to sample, how many other hands have been inside there? Do they possibly have a cold that I'm about to catch?)
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