Consumers shunning healthy lifestyle

Consumers are failing to adhere to the UK Government's healthy eating message, according to the latest industry figures.



The Grocer magazine shows that shoppers are spending more on alcohol and fatty food, despite health warnings.


The figures, complied by analysts ACNielsen, show that chocolate sales increased by three per cent in the 12 months to
October, to reach ?2.6 billion, whilst sales of cakes jumped 4.9 per cent to ?816 million.


Consumers are also ignoring advice to reduce alcohol intake as lager sales rose 4.1 per cent to total almost ?2.6 billion.



However, the data did reveal that the nation's eating habits are changing, with people more inclined to have weekend treats
rather than everyday snacking.


"We are finding that consumers are changing their behaviour to a deprivation-reward culture," Simon Mowbray, marketing editor
of The Grocer.


"They are avoiding snacking on unhealthy foods during the week then rewarding themselves with a more indulgent treat at the
weekend."


There were signs of improvement in some food areas, with a decline in crisps sales and sugar-coated breakfast cereals.

hda-online