Healthy Checkout Policy Shows Promise for Reducing Soda Sales and Increasing Healthy Snack Purchases

Healthy checkout policy shows promise for reducing soda sales and increasing healthy snack purchases

In March 2021, Berkeley, Calif., became the first city in the world to ban the display of sugary beverages and snacks in store checkout lanes, where candy, chocolate and soda are commonly placed to encourage impulse buying while shoppers are in line.

Berkeley Banned Candy and Soda From Checkout Lines. Only One Sold Less.

Soda sales in Berkeley stores fell by nearly 40% after the city's checkout ban became legally enforceable, according to new sales data. Candy told a different story.

Healthy checkout ordinance linked to lower soda and candy sales

A new study found that a healthy checkout ordinance implemented in Berkeley, Calif. supermarkets, drug stores, and mass-market retailers in 2021 was linked to notable decreases in soda sales overall and small-package candy in supermarkets, but greater enforcement of such policies is essential for sustained and meaningful public health benefit.

New healthy checkout policy cuts soda sales and boosts snack choices

The checkout lane has long been retail’s most reliable trap. Engineered with bright lighting, vivid packaging, and shelf placement exactly at eye level, the final meters of a supermarket trip are deliberately designed to convert waiting time into impulse purchases of candy, chocolate, and soda. In March 2021, the city of Berkeley, California decided to […]