Grocery stores, cafeterias and restaurants, all shapes and sizes, must abide by federal laws to stay in business. Most of these companies also set in-house policies to boost sales and provide superior service and products. These directives and laws could be seen as a hinderance to workers but the core of these policies are the same: to lead consumers in the right direction and to the cash register.

Last week, Walmart debuted their “Great for You” label, a green stamp of approval for healthy groceries, and it was even applauded by First Lady Michelle Obama who said, “Just over a year ago, Walmart committed to save shoppers a billion dollars in their cost of fruits and vegetables and the fact that Walmart exceeded this number is a real accomplishment and a milestone in our efforts to support families eating better. In addition, the healthy seal will be another tool for parents to identify the best products for their kids. Giving parents the information they need to make healthy choices is a key piece of solving childhood obesity.”

The “Great for You” label is one of Walmart’s “healthier food initiatives” and it will be placed on a number of Walmart’s own “Great Value” and “Marketside” brand of groceries.   Signage in the produce aisle will also have the image to point customers in a healthier direction.

There is a two-step process to qualify groceries for the “Great For You” label and it was developed using criteria set forth by the USDA and FDA. Nutritionists and food experts in the private sector also assisted Walmart in the development process. 

Step one focuses on identifying healthy items -fruits, vegetables, whole grain and lean meats. Step two limits the amount of fats, sodium and added sugars that are commonly found in items like sweetened oatmeal, granola bars, and frozen meals.

Is Walmart’s latest initiative another example of “greenwashing” and a marketing ploy designed to boost sales while not really encouraging significant change?  Walmart has reduced the amount of sodium and added sugar in 165 of their grocery options including ketchup - a kid-friendly condiment staple because what else do kids want for their french fries? Walmart can only control their products and they can't force people to be healthy but they are trying.

One thing is certain: customers want this type of labeling to take the guesswork out of grocery shopping and make the process more efficient.

“Walmart moms are telling us they want to make healthier choices for their families, but need help deciphering all the claims and information already displayed on products,” said Andrea Thomas, senior vice president of sustainability at Walmart. “Our ‘Great For You’ icon provides customers with an easy way to quickly identify healthier food choices. As they continue to balance busy schedules and tight budgets, this simple tool encourages families to have a healthier diet.”

Stores could be put a skull and crossbones on all the unhealthy food options being sold but that would hurt sales and scare people two things retailers definitely don’t want to do.