Access to Nutrition initiative (ATNi) released its inaugural U.S. Retail Assessment, providing a comprehensive review of nutrition-related policies and practices of Walmart, Kroger and Food Lion, which, together, account for 37 percent of national grocery sales. The assessment examines how the three retailers influence dietary habits through their product formulations, pricing and marketing.

According to the report, nearly 70 percent of Americans purchase their food from supermarkets and supercenters, making these retailers powerful contributors to the food environment. The report is part of ATNi’s multi-country “Retail Assessment 2025,” which analyzes 18 major food retailers and more than 18,000 store brand products across the United States, France, South Africa, Indonesia, the Philippines and Kenya.

Key findings show that more than 75 percent of store brand products sold by Walmart, Kroger, and Food Lion contain more sugar, salt or fat than is considered healthy. If colors, flavors and sweetener—which are often used in highly processed foods—are also considered, then more than 80 percent could be assessed as unhealthy. Cost also remains a major barrier to healthy eating. A basket of healthier foods costs 18.4 percent more at Walmart and 58.7 percent more at Kroger than a comparable basket of standard food. In addition, ATNi finds that fewer than 20 percent of products highlighted in promotional flyers are healthy, 

“[This Assessment] is a clear call for food retailers to take bold steps towards improving the health of their customers,” says an ATNi representative. “By reformulating products, adjusting pricing strategies and rethinking marketing practices, retailers can become champions of nutrition and public health.”

For more information, call 123-456-7899 or visit AccessToNutrition.org.