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Behavioral psychology has always fascinated me. Even though we, as humans, can be extremely complex, at the core, we all have a lot of similarities. And that’s exactly how behavioral psychologists are working to better our eating habits.

To combat the shiny, multi-colored packaging of processed food items that scream for our attention in the grocery store, two social scientists have created subtle, yet surprisingly effective, ‘nudges’ to help shoppers focus on their health by purchasing more fruits and vegetables.

Rather than post dire warnings about diabetes or other scare tactics, several grocery stores have instituted small changes. A mirror on the shopping cart, to keep the shopper focused on themselves and not be distracted by marketing and packaging throughout the store. A yellow line, dividing the shopping cart in half, with instructions to fill half the cart with fruits and veggies. Large green arrows on the floor to guide shoppers away from the junk food and towards the fresh produce aisle. 

All these seemingly small changes speak to a much larger set of social norms and behavioral cues. And it’s paying off! Not only are customers purchasing more fresh fruits and vegetables, but grocers are also seeing higher profits. 

And when capitalism meets societal need – only positive change can happen.