How Is Online Grocery Shopping Changing Our Eating Habits? Insights from Penn State University

Online grocery shopping took off during the COVID-19 pandemic. As we all tried to stay safe, ordering groceries online became a popular choice. Even now, this trend isn’t slowing down. For instance, in August, online grocery sales topped $11 billion for the first time.

Yizao Liu, an associate professor of agricultural economics at Penn State, has been studying how this shift in grocery buying affects food choices and waste. Her team has spent five years exploring what we buy and what we throw away in our new online shopping habits.

So, why is this research important?

Liu points out that shopping has changed significantly. Many people, regardless of income or location, are now buying groceries with just a few clicks. The aim is to find out how this change impacts our eating habits. Grocery shopping plays a key role in our health and daily choices, so understanding online shopping’s effects is crucial.

Interestingly, online grocery shopping can sometimes bridge gaps in food access. For those in rural or low-income areas, it might offer more healthy options. However, it can also exacerbate existing issues. For example, if a delivery service isn’t available or if online platforms mainly promote less nutritious foods, some people may face even more challenges.

Now, does this type of shopping really influence what we buy?

Yes, it does. Research shows that people who shop online often make healthier choices. They spend more on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Impulse purchases—those tempting snacks and sugary drinks—are often lower. However, it’s not the same everywhere. In well-served communities, online shopping often supports healthy purchases. But in places where only convenience stores are available, it can have the opposite effect.

Liu explains that online grocery shopping can also impact nutritional disparities. On one hand, it can help by offering healthy options to those with limited access. For instance, people using SNAP benefits might find it easier to purchase nutritious foods online.

On the flip side, the benefits aren’t equal. Wealthier areas tend to experience more advantages from online shopping. If access and affordability are uneven, many might not enjoy the same benefits, reflecting existing inequalities in the food system.

What about food waste? Does online shopping lead to over-buying?

Interestingly, Liu suggests that online shopping might help reduce food waste. Many online shoppers plan their purchases in advance. They tend to create lists and think through meals before placing orders. This leads to fewer impulse buys and less waste. However, some might still order too many perishables or face delivery minimums that push them to over-buy. Generally, though, shopping online encourages more mindful purchasing.

For those shopping online, Liu shares a few tips:

1. Plan ahead. Use your cart to stay on track and avoid impulse buys.
2. Check nutritional information. It’s often easier to compare labels online.
3. Watch product recommendations. Algorithms may promote processed foods instead of healthier options.
4. Use filters. Sort by SNAP-eligible, low-sodium, or organic products to find healthier choices faster.

In short, online grocery shopping has reshaped our food landscape. While it offers new opportunities for better choices, it’s essential to navigate it wisely. Understanding both its benefits and challenges can help us make informed decisions about what we eat.

For more insights on grocery shopping trends, you can explore the latest research and statistics from sources like Digital Commerce 360.

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