The Canary Islands Banana Association (ASPROCAN) and retail giant Alcampo have launched a pilot program to encourage fruit consumption at checkout lines. This test aims to see if placing fruit at impulse-buy spots can increase sales and offer a healthier alternative to snacks and sweets.
Healthy Choices at Checkout
- The project is backed by the European Union’s Agricultural Promotion Program.
- Canary Islands bananas and mandarins will be available at checkout areas.
- The test runs in Alcampo stores in Madrid during March 2025.
- The goal is to check consumer response and identify any barriers to success.
Addressing Childhood Obesity
- Spain has one of the highest childhood obesity rates in Europe.
- 40.6% of children (ages 6-9) are overweight, with 17.3% classified as obese.
- Experts say fruits are less accessible than unhealthy snacks at checkout shelves.
Fighting for Better Eating Habits
This pilot is part of the Proper Diet program, which started in 2022. It focuses on making healthy food more available for children. Other campaigns include:
- “Fruit Gives Extra Life” – A marketing push to make fruit more appealing.
- The Healthy League – A school-based program promoting balanced eating.
By bringing fruit into high-visibility areas, this project hopes to change shopping habits and support healthier choices for families.
