Reviewed by Dietitian Katey Davidson, M.Sc.FN, RD, CPT
Credit: Getty Images. EatingWell design.
Key Points from Grocery Workers
- Small habits like returning items and cleaning up enhance the work environment for grocery employees.
- Using utensils and observing hygiene practices promotes safety within stores.
- Respecting grocery employees improves the overall shopping experience for everyone.
Throughout the pandemic, the critical role of grocery store employees has come to light. These workers are essential not only to the economy but also to our everyday lives. They manage everything from stocking shelves to preparing freshly cut meats, seafood, baked goods, and meal options. It’s evident that we all rely on their efforts to keep our kitchens running smoothly.
While shopping might be a simple, routine task for many, for grocery workers, it’s a complex job involving long hours on the sales floor. One telling difference is how minor customer behaviors can either complicate or ease their responsibilities. We consulted both current and former grocery store employees to gather insights on the habits they wish shoppers would change. With a bit of mindfulness, we can create a more pleasant shopping experience for all.
Avoid Leaving Perishable Items Behind
We’ve all been tempted to abandon that bag of carrots or a pack of chicken halfway through our shopping. However, leaving perishable items on random shelves not only frustrates grocery workers but is also wasteful. One employee noted that abandoning food can lead to items being discarded, which ultimately affects inventory and pricing for everyone. Instead, try returning unwanted items to their proper places or hand them to a staff member for restocking.
Be Mindful of Waste
Sampling produce is common, but shoppers need to clean up afterward. Grocery employees often find remnants of these samples throughout the store, creating additional sanitation work. A former grocery worker recounted how, during cherry season, they frequently dealt with cherry pits left abandoned, despite trash cans being conveniently located nearby. Always dispose of waste properly to help maintain a clean environment.
Use Utensils for Ready-to-Eat Foods
When handling ready-to-eat items, it’s crucial to use the available utensils. Bare hands can contaminate food, leading to unnecessary waste when items have to be discarded. A former employee emphasized the importance of proper hygiene in self-serve areas and urged shoppers to use utensils for picking items to avoid compromising cleanliness and availability.
Don’t Confront Employees About Prices
As food prices rise, it’s essential not to take frustrations out on grocery employees. Many workers share your concerns regarding rising costs. Engaging in disputes over pricing not only detracts from their work but also places them in uncomfortable positions. Instead, remember that they are also customers affected by the same issues.
Return Shopping Carts to Designated Areas
Improperly discarded shopping carts in parking lots create unnecessary obstacles for employees. Grocery workers request that shoppers return their carts to designated corrals to avoid potential hazards and ease their workload. Stray carts can block parking spaces or even damage vehicles, making it essential for everyone to do their part.
Keep Pets at Home
Unless you have a trained service animal, it’s advisable to leave pets at home when grocery shopping. Non-service animals can pose sanitation and safety concerns in a food environment, making the shopping experience difficult for both employees and other customers. Prioritizing everyone’s comfort ensures a pleasant shopping atmosphere.
In closing, grocery store employees are vital to our food system, and small changes can significantly enhance their work environment while improving customer experiences. Simple actions like throwing away trash, using utensils in self-service areas, and respecting their space create a cleaner and safer shopping environment for everyone. Employees are always ready to assist shoppers if treated with respect in return, which fosters a more enjoyable shopping experience.
For a full read, check the original article on EatingWell.
