Alfred Health has successfully slashed sales of unhealthy foods across all hospital sites by more than 30,000 meals each year as part of a new trial to tackle obesity and promote healthy eating.
In partnership with key retailers, Alfred Health tested whether innovative communication tools at the point of sale would impact consumer choice and retail profit. These resources are available to other not-for-profit organisations to use in their own settings.
Based on the Victorian Government Healthy Choices Food and Drink Guidelines, foods were labelled as GREEN, AMBER or RED, and were accompanied by a quirky ‘nudge’ line for example, green – ‘Mum would be proud’, amber, ‘like a par in golf’, red – ‘maaaaaate’. Posters to explain the cards were also displayed.
Through this messaging, Alfred Health helped shift buyer behaviour. Consumers kept buying food; there was no significant difference in total food sales, keeping retailers happy. However, in a positive move, people shifted away from ‘ red’ foods and towards healthier choices. This translates to around 30,000 fewer red lunches sold at one café at The Alfred each year.
To see the infographic report on the trial or to access the Point of Sale Traffic Light resources, visit Alfred Health’s website
For further support on how you can create your own healthy food environment, contact the Healthy Eating Advisory Service
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