Health News | The Shelby Report https://www.theshelbyreport.com/category/grocery-categories/health-wellness/ Your source for Grocery news and Supermarket insights Fri, 22 Apr 2022 21:11:36 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://shelbyreport.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/NEWshelbyMap-2016_500-59x59.png Health News | The Shelby Report https://www.theshelbyreport.com/category/grocery-categories/health-wellness/ 32 32 Presence Unveils Key Trends, Predictions For Consumers In 2022 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2022/04/24/presence-unveils-key-trends-predictions-for-consumers-in-2022/ Sun, 24 Apr 2022 19:00:21 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=185277 In the past few years, there’s been a shift as consumers have become more focused on better-for-you products and prioritizing their health and wellness needs. They are also better informed today than ever before. People have become more conscious of the way they shop, consume and dispose of everyday items. “The new generation of consumers […]

The post Presence Unveils Key Trends, Predictions For Consumers In 2022 appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
In the past few years, there’s been a shift as consumers have become more focused on better-for-you products and prioritizing their health and wellness needs. They are also better informed today than ever before. People have become more conscious of the way they shop, consume and dispose of everyday items.

“The new generation of consumers is becoming more educated, more adventurous and more open to trying different products and services,” said Tracy Miedema, VP of business development at Presence. “We’re seeing consumers proactively seek food and beverage brands that promote health and mental wellness, choosing natural products and supplements for holistic nutrition and are looking to make a positive impact on their communities and the environment.”

To gain a deeper understanding of how today’s generation of health-conscious consumers are prioritizing their health and wellness needs, below are a few of the latest trends that will fuel innovation in 2022 and beyond:

Relaxation supplements for stress and sleep

The pandemic has exacerbated the level of stress a consumer faces on a day-to-day basis and their attention to emotional well-being and stress support have accelerated in the ever-changing COVID era. As a result, many people are turning to vitamins and supplements to support their mental health. As such, SPINS reports vitamins and supplements saw 43 percent year over year growth on Amazon.

Although there are many drivers of growth for vitamins and supplements, there was a significant increase in stress and sleep support. In a year-over-year growth report provided by SPINS, results show a 30 percent growth for stress relief and sleep support products. With the rise of natural wellness products, consumers are seeking new innovations in delivery format and combinations that include ingredients such as magnesium, MCT or ashwagandha to help relaxation, sleep, and relieve stress.

Carbonated soda for gut health

As consumers become increasingly aware of the foundational role of good gut health, the probiotics category continues to grow, increasing outside of supplements and into new food and beverage formats. In 2020, the global probiotics market was estimated at $54.77 billion and is continuing to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.2 percent from 2021 to 2028.

Probiotics are usually found in various types of fermented foods such as yogurt, kombucha, pickles and kimchi. Today, one of its leading contributors to the growing probiotics trend are functional carbonated beverages. Amongst the most popular probiotic drinks are shelf-stable functional carbonated beverages in the energy and performance categories.

Carbonated drinks with digestive benefits – prebiotic, probiotic and postbiotic – are the next generation of functional beverages containing health-boosting ingredients that boast to be better for the digestive system and boost immunity. Shelf-stable energy drinks and other functional beverages containing probiotics were the top sales drivers with 4,357.4 percent growth. For beverages containing prebiotics, shelf- stable soda and carbonated beverages were up by 12.8 percent.

Regenerative agriculture

Health-conscious consumers will pay a premium on products that ensure their health and well-being and support social responsibility and sustainability. Many have taken an interest in environmental health and are purchasing products that support the future they want to see. Continuing to seek cleaner ingredient profiles, consumers are now watching how companies are working toward a better planet.

Since 2019, business interest in regenerative agriculture has spiked by 138 percent. Regenerative agriculture is a movement that promotes biodiversity, sequesters carbon and allows living systems to work in harmony. The concept draws on traditions of working with the rhythms of nature, and there has been a re-introduction of regenerative agriculture practices over the course of the pandemic.

Regenerative agriculture has been booming and will play a critical role shaping the future of agriculture. Tactics that prioritize soil health to achieve optimal level of nutrients for crop production, no-till planting, the inclusion of cover crops on farmland and traditional animal husbandry will help make the food and agriculture sector become more responsible and at the same time appeal to conscious consumers.

More sustainable packaging options

Shoppers are paying close attention to the environmental impact of what they purchase and selectively choosing the brands they support by investing in those that align with their values and the issues that are important to them. Although many manufacturers have shifted to eco-friendly, upcycled packaging options, environmental waste remains to be a top concern for purpose-driven consumers.

Manufacturers, retailers and other brands are rethinking how to provide even more sustainable material when packaging products. Choosing recycled materials that can help reduce waste and carbon footprint can minimize the use of plastics and one-time-use packaging materials. Throughout packaging supply chains, there’s been a 23 percent increase in recyclable pod/cup systems, 9 percent increase in aseptic cartons and 2 percent increase in using glass, according to SPINS.

As packaging continues to factor into purchasing decisions, we’ll also see innovation surrounding zero-waste packaging.

Mushroom everything

With continued double-digit growth in the natural retail channel, SPINS reported mushrooms grew in sales by 16.1 percent to reach $420MM in sales and is poised for mainstream success. Consumers are showing a new level of interest in engagement in all things mushroom. From culinary to functional, the fungi kingdom is newly being recognized for its role in the human diet.

Retailers are stocking a variety of new mushroom products, and fungi are even featured in seasoning blends, ready-to-drink beverages, snacks and coffee. Supplements that contain mushroom as a key ingredient in the form of capsule, powder, tinctures or teas are also becoming more popular.

Various types of mushrooms provide different benefits. Chaga, cordyceps, Reishi, lion’s mane and turkey tail are more commonly found as supplements and in powder form, although they can also be found fresh and dried. Their ingredients have been shown to stimulate the immune system, help with healthy blood pressure management, supply powerful antioxidants and support overall wellness. Some research also suggests they may promote focus, provide cardiovascular and skin health support, or boost cognition.

The surge in demand for functional mushrooms and supplements will continue to grow as consumers look for food and beverage innovations that promote benefits beyond basic nutrition. In 2020, the global functional mushroom market generated $7.98 billion. By 2030, the global functional mushroom market is expected to amount to $19.33 billion, seeing a CAGR of 9.3 percent between 2021 and 2030.

To learn more about Presence, visit pmidpi.com.

Founded in 1990, South Barrington, Illinois-based Presence is the leading independent natural foods broker that partners with brands that share a commitment to taking care of the environment and people. Over the past 30-plus years, Presence has grown from a small Midwest-based natural and organic food brokerage to a national company with more than 500 employees.

For more National news from The Shelby Report, click here.

The post Presence Unveils Key Trends, Predictions For Consumers In 2022 appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Albertsons Cos. Expands Affordable Access To Fresh Foods, OTC Meds https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2022/03/30/albertsons-cos-expands-affordable-access-to-fresh-foods-otc-meds/ Wed, 30 Mar 2022 16:55:38 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=183508 Boise, Idaho-based Albertsons Companies says that customers can now use supplemental benefits to purchase OTC medications and fresh produce in the company’s stores. The new program provides access to customers using pre-paid cards funded by Medicare Advantage plans, employer incentives, healthcare providers or local governments. “We are committed to offering solutions that deliver access to […]

The post Albertsons Cos. Expands Affordable Access To Fresh Foods, OTC Meds appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Boise, Idaho-based Albertsons Companies says that customers can now use supplemental benefits to purchase OTC medications and fresh produce in the company’s stores.

The new program provides access to customers using pre-paid cards funded by Medicare Advantage plans, employer incentives, healthcare providers or local governments.

“We are committed to offering solutions that deliver access to healthy produce and meals, reduce food insecurity and provide solutions for chronic condition management,” said Omer Gajial, EVP of pharmacy and health at Albertsons Cos. “Using supplemental benefits enables shoppers to conveniently shop for fresh food and over-the-counter medications contributing to their overall health and well-being.” 

Albertsons Cos. has partnered with technology payments platforms such as Solutran’s S3 to make it convenient for eligible cardholders to use their health plan funds to shop for hundreds of fresh produce and OTC products in Albertsons Cos. stores. Customers can use their pre-paid cards in stores to easily shop for eligible items and make healthier choices.  

“Albertsons Companies stores are a very popular shopping destination for millions of Medicare Advantage members using the Solutran S3 benefits platform,” said Mike Rahman, president of Solutran. “This year, the platform will issue approximately $5 billion in food and over-the-counter benefits.”

Albertsons Cos. also accepts Fresh Bucks, a local government supplemental program supported by S3 which launched in Seattle to help consumers afford fruits and vegetables. The company is working to expand programs like Fresh Bucks to more stores. 

Albertsons Cos. is a food and drug retailer that operates stores across 34 states and the District of Columbia, with more than 20 well-known banners including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen, Carrs, Kings Food Markets and Balducci’s Food Lovers Market.

The company is committed to helping people across the country live better lives by making a meaningful difference, neighborhood by neighborhood. 

The post Albertsons Cos. Expands Affordable Access To Fresh Foods, OTC Meds appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Sprouts To Host Livestream Series With Kumai To Inspire Healthy Habits https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2022/01/04/sprouts-to-host-livestream-series-with-kumai-to-inspire-healthy-habits/ Tue, 04 Jan 2022 19:39:58 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=177220 Phoenix-based Sprouts Farmers Market is hosting a series of four Facebook livestreams with Candice Kumai that are designed to inspire healthy habits and share recipes and tips.  Sprouts, known for supporting shoppers’ health goals with its assortment of fresh, organic, plant-based and low-carb, keto-friendly options, will host the livestreams every Thursday in January at 2 […]

The post Sprouts To Host Livestream Series With Kumai To Inspire Healthy Habits appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Phoenix-based Sprouts Farmers Market is hosting a series of four Facebook livestreams with Candice Kumai that are designed to inspire healthy habits and share recipes and tips. 

Sprouts, known for supporting shoppers’ health goals with its assortment of fresh, organic, plant-based and low-carb, keto-friendly options, will host the livestreams every Thursday in January at 2 p.m. PST. 

Viewers can join Kumai, named “The Golden Girl of Wellness” by ELLE and Forbes magazines, as she brings her skillset as a classically trained chef and food editor to the series.

“Feeling better and leading a healthier life can begin simply by incorporating delicious, nutrient-rich foods into your everyday meals,” said Kumai. 

“My recipes and practical tips are informed by the ancient, time-proven rituals of my Japanese culture, and I can’t wait to share my knowledge to help viewers nourish their mind, body and spirit.”

Kumai (@candicekumai) was recently chosen as one of Arianna Huffington’s “Top 20 New Role Models” and is a regular culture contributor on The Today Show. A six-time, best-selling author, her latest book “Kintsugi Wellness” was published in 10 different languages, and her upcoming book will be an Audible Original focused on spiritual wellness.

The series will offer timely tips to help viewers discover fresh, healthy and seasonal solutions at home. To tune in to and receive notifications for the livestreams, visit facebook.com/SproutsFarmersMarket/events/.

The series will cover topics such as Wellness Week, Clean it Up with Organic, Neat-o Keto and Put More Plants on Your Plate. 

The series will begin streaming on Jan. 6. 

Viewers can download the Sprouts App to view weekly sales corresponding to each week’s livestream topic. Attendees will have the chance to win prize bundles, including copies of Kumai’s latest book, “Kintsugi Wellness,” and Sprouts gift cards.

Sprouts continues to bring the latest in wholesome, innovative products made with lifestyle-friendly ingredients such as organic, plant-based and gluten-free. The retailer employs approximately 35,000 team members and operates more than 360 stores in 23 states nationwide. To learn more, visit about.sprouts.com.

The post Sprouts To Host Livestream Series With Kumai To Inspire Healthy Habits appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Stop & Shop Nutrition Partner Offers Health/Wellness Tips For New Year https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2021/12/23/stop-shop-nutrition-partner-offers-health-wellness-tips-for-new-year/ Thu, 23 Dec 2021 21:56:41 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=176911 While many are inspired by the optimism of a new year, it’s no secret that only a few people are able to successfully maintain their New Year’s resolution long-term. So, for those looking to New Year’s as the perfect opportunity to establish balanced patterns, Stop & Shop Nutrition Partner Emily Hayes is offering wellness tips […]

The post Stop & Shop Nutrition Partner Offers Health/Wellness Tips For New Year appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
While many are inspired by the optimism of a new year, it’s no secret that only a few people are able to successfully maintain their New Year’s resolution long-term. So, for those looking to New Year’s as the perfect opportunity to establish balanced patterns, Stop & Shop Nutrition Partner Emily Hayes is offering wellness tips for how to successfully lead a healthier lifestyle in 2022.

As a member of the Nutrition Partners team, Hayes provides customers with direct access to food-and nutrition-related questions, along with insight on starting or maintaining a healthy, balanced diet through virtual nutrition consultations.

Her love for all things food, along with a fascination for nutrition science, sparked her passion for becoming a registered dietitian. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in food science and human nutrition from the University of Maine, Hayes completed her dietetic training at Massachusetts General Hospital. 

Throughout January, Stop & Shop’s Nutrition Partners are hosting a free live educational and interactive webinar series called 4 Weeks 4 You. During the virtual workshop, the Nutrition Partners will hold small group discussions and provide nutrition guidance on how to find an eating pattern participants can stick with to support their individual health goals, along with meal planning tips.

 

Tips for better nutrition

  • Setting the Stage for Success: “Begin with goals that are SMART – specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-bound. With this SMART framework, you’re able to set clear targets and effectively monitor progress. If physical activity isn’t a part of your day-to-day routine, it’s probably not realistic to say you’re going to go to the gym for an hour every day, so start small. Consider the following SMART goal: I will walk for 30 minutes, two days per week for the next month,” Hayes said.
  • Movement and Mindfulness: “When it comes to healthful eating, we tend to focus on what we eat, but did you know how you eat can be just as important? Mindful eating is a practice that encourages individuals to truly tune in to the eating experience by eliminating distractors, such as your phone. This helps naturally manage portion sizes, and you’ll walk away from the meal feeling satisfied and not uncomfortably stuffed. Put away electronics and practice mindful eating – take your time and savor the flavor,” Hayes said.
  • Ditching the Diets: “It’s estimated that about 45 million Americans go on a diet each year. As restrictive diets continue to rise in popularity, those looking to achieve their health and wellness goals are guided by the false narrative that these diets (keto, intermittent fasting, etc.) are the fastest route. For eating habits that lead to long-term success, start by getting back to the basics and prioritize nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy. With that said, it’s important to note that all foods can fit into an overall healthy and balanced eating pattern, so honor your cravings by enjoying a small serving and carry on – no guilt needed,” Hayes said.
  • Commit to Hassle-Free Meal Planning: “Having a well-stocked freezer is the secret for getting homemade meals on the table all week long. Pairing frozen proteins (edamame, veggie burgers) and vegetables (stir-fry blends, chopped spinach, peas) with a hearty whole grain that you can batch cook makes for an easy and balanced dinner. Meals from ‘healthy’ fast-casual restaurants are often loaded with sodium, added sugar and saturated fat, so preparing food at home is one of the best ways to ensure you are getting a nutrient-rich meal. For example, the Kale Caesar salad from Sweetgreen, a trendy salad bar, has more than 1200 mg of sodium. That’s over 50 percent of your daily recommended intake. Recreating your restaurant favorites at home could become a fun new weekly challenge,” Hayes said. 

The post Stop & Shop Nutrition Partner Offers Health/Wellness Tips For New Year appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Hy-Vee Launches Nationwide Subsidiary RedBox Rx https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2021/12/21/hy-vee-launches-nationwide-subsidiary-redbox-rx/ Tue, 21 Dec 2021 22:35:24 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=176785 West Des Moines, Iowa-based Hy-Vee Inc. is offering RedBox Rx, a new national subsidiary that provides low-cost telehealth and online pharmacy services. It also ships prescribed treatments directly to patients’ homes throughout the U.S. RedBox Rx makes it easy for people to get the treatment they need by offering quick, easy and discreet access to a […]

The post Hy-Vee Launches Nationwide Subsidiary RedBox Rx appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
West Des Moines, Iowa-based Hy-Vee Inc. is offering RedBox Rx, a new national subsidiary that provides low-cost telehealth and online pharmacy services. It also ships prescribed treatments directly to patients’ homes throughout the U.S.

RedBox Rx makes it easy for people to get the treatment they need by offering quick, easy and discreet access to a provider who can prescribe prescription medication that is then shipped for free directly to the patient. This low-cost service bypasses insurance and offers treatment plans for men’s health, women’s health, hair and skin, mental health, migraine headaches, primary care and more.

For a list of conditions that RedBox Rx treats, visit redboxrx.com/services.

RedBox Rx is available to patients ages 18 and older nationwide.

Telehealth consultation fees range from free to $39, depending on the type of treatment and are provided via a partnership with Reliant Immune Diagnostics’ MDbox platform that integrates with RedBox Rx. Consultation fees are often less expensive than typical medical insurance copays.

To keep prices low and save patients the hassle, RedBox Rx does not accept insurance. Patients may, however, use their HSA or FSA card to pay for the telehealth visit or prescription costs. 

“At Hy-Vee, we pride ourselves on being experts in health and wellness, and it’s a major component of what we do every day – whether it be in our retail pharmacies or through our dietetic services,” said Randy Edeker, Hy-Vee’s chairman and CEO. “In today’s world, we know that more people are looking for quick, convenient and personalized health care options that can be shipped directly to their homes, and RedBox Rx does exactly that.”

“Our mission at Reliant Immune Diagnostics with our MDbox platform is to provide affordable health care any place, any time,” said Henry Legere, founder and CEO of Reliant Immune Diagnostics. “We’re excited to partner with Hy-Vee to provide our nationwide network of 24/7/365 medical professionals and our technologies to support their vision for the future of health care.”

RedBox Rx is also a complementary/alternative health care option for the covered conditions that employers can share with their employees at no cost to the employer.

Hy-Vee Inc. is an employee-owned corporation operating more than 285 retail stores across eight Midwestern states with sales of more than $12 billion annually. The supermarket chain ranks in the Top 10 Most Trusted Brands and has been named one of America’s Top Three favorite grocery stores. For additional information, visit hy-vee.com.

The post Hy-Vee Launches Nationwide Subsidiary RedBox Rx appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Roots Food Group Nonprofit Brings Food Security To Visually Impaired https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2021/11/18/roots-food-group-nonprofit-brings-food-security-to-visually-impaired/ Thu, 18 Nov 2021 21:32:07 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=175081 Dallas, Texas-based Roots Food Group has launched FeedingTheBlind.org, a nonprofit organization providing medically tailored meals to individuals who are blind or have low vision.  There are significant challenges that come between the health and wellness of the estimated 25 million Americans who are blind or have low vision, the majority of whom are over 50 years […]

The post Roots Food Group Nonprofit Brings Food Security To Visually Impaired appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Dallas, Texas-based Roots Food Group has launched FeedingTheBlind.org, a nonprofit organization providing medically tailored meals to individuals who are blind or have low vision. 

There are significant challenges that come between the health and wellness of the estimated 25 million Americans who are blind or have low vision, the majority of whom are over 50 years old. The inability to drive, shop for groceries, read a nutritional panel, view a freshness date or read the cooking instructions are just a few impediments that can prevent these individuals from securing and consuming nutritious meals. And, according to the American Foundation for the Blind, more than 70 percent of adults who are blind or have low vision are also unemployed.

Feeding the Blind addressed these obstacles by providing free and subsidized medically-tailored meals that are ready-to-eat and simple to heat delivered directly to consumers’ homes.

More than 30 million people in the United States, or nearly 10 percent of the population, have diabetes. By continuing with unhealthful eating habits, diabetics are 25 times more likely than non-diabetics to develop low or complete loss of sight, making diabetes the leading cause of blindness. 

“Proper nutrition among low vision and blind individuals is especially important due to the prevalence of diabetes and inherent dietary needs. Providing medically tailored meals to this community is a huge, progressive step to allow every person an equal opportunity to make health-conscious decisions and consume delicious, good-for-you meals that are rich with nutrients,” stated Robert Jones, CEO of Roots Food Group and chairman of the board of Feeding the Blind. 

“Feeding the Blind is launching with multiple corporate and strategic partners to support the mission of providing healthy medically tailored meals to the blind and low vision community. Our founding partners include Be My Eyes, which inspired the development of this nonprofit organization. Other founding partners include The Chris Paul Family Foundation, Holland and Knight, Baker Tilly, Roots Food Foundation, Accessible Pharmacy, and Dunes Capital, among others,” said Laura Kovacevich, executive director of Feeding the Blind.

“Be My Eyes is honored to be a part of any program that provides healthy food for our community of five million-plus blind and low vision individuals,” said Todd Kuipers, VP of sales at Be My Eyes.

“Food is Medicine” refers to a spectrum of health and wellness interventions that recognize and respond to the critical link between nutrition and chronic diseases. Interventions consist of healthful foods that are tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals living with or at risk for serious health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease and hypercholesterolemia.

Roots Food Group is a mission-driven technology, healthcare, philanthropic and food company that believes in creating healthy outcomes through “Food is Medicine.” The company manufactures and distributes high quality, earth made, medically tailored food products to healthcare companies and affiliated systems, communities and direct to the consumer to address the epidemic of chronic disease and other medical conditions. 

The post Roots Food Group Nonprofit Brings Food Security To Visually Impaired appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
USDA Task Force Offers Tips On Streamlining WIC Redemption https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2021/11/18/usda-task-force-offers-tips-on-streamlining-wic-redemption/ Thu, 18 Nov 2021 21:14:51 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=175060 The WIC Task Force on Supplemental Foods Delivery has submitted a report to the U.S. Department of Agriculture identifying recommendations to streamline the redemption of Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children benefits in a manner that promotes convenience, safety and equitable access for program participants. Established by USDA as required by the Consolidated Appropriations Act […]

The post USDA Task Force Offers Tips On Streamlining WIC Redemption appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
The WIC Task Force on Supplemental Foods Delivery has submitted a report to the U.S. Department of Agriculture identifying recommendations to streamline the redemption of Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children benefits in a manner that promotes convenience, safety and equitable access for program participants.

Established by USDA as required by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, the task force was charged with reviewing current WIC regulations and making recommendations on the adoption of online and telephone ordering, curbside pickup and payment, online and telephone purchasing, home delivery, self-checkout and other measures that limit or forgo the need for consumer presence in a physical store. 

The task force is comprised of retailers and manufacturers of WIC supplemental foods, representatives of WIC state and local agencies, WIC participants and technology companies.

Online purchasing is currently prohibited under the WIC program rules, and the regulations do not allow for transactions via a virtual platform. In contemplating the steps that would reduce regulatory barriers and unleash the potential of new delivery systems, the task force established four guiding principles as part of the development of its recommendations:

  • Pursue the most intelligent ordering and payment approach to the extent possible;
  • Following existing commercial models, where possible;
  • Treat WIC participants equally to other retail consumers; and
  • Focus on best practices.

In its report, the task force urged swift and focused USDA action to partner with WIC providers, retailers, suppliers, technology experts, processors and all other interested stakeholders to develop and implement modern, forward-looking solutions that streamline the WIC transaction. Specifically, the report provides recommendations on how best to establish an online WIC redemption process, including ordering, fulfillment, purchase completion and pickup or delivery. 

“WIC participants shop in retail grocery stores like any other family, but outdated program rules require WIC families to shop as if it’s still the 20th century. After months of review by diverse stakeholders, the task force report is clear: WIC families deserve modern ordering and transaction options equivalent to the general shopping public,” said Melinda Newport, chair of the USDA Task Force on Supplemental Foods Delivery. 

“USDA has already undertaken an extraordinary amount of effort to integrate food assistance programs into retailer platforms, including through online SNAP and WIC pilot projects. The task force report charts a path forward to update WIC regulations in a manner that would empower state, retailer and payment processor innovation to deliver tangible solutions for WIC families in the next few years.

“On behalf of the task force, we appreciate the collaboration of this broad assembly of interested parties in studying these complex program improvements and providing guidance to inform USDA’s next steps. We eagerly await the forthcoming rulemaking period to advance modern vendor regulations that will build a 21st-century framework for the WIC shopping experience,” she said.

Apart from the report, in September 2021, an independent poll by McLaughlin & Associates/ALG Research conducted on behalf of the National WIC Association and Alliance to End Hunger found broad support for modernizing WIC services, including online shopping options for WIC families. The poll registered 74 percent support among likely voters, including 60 percent support of likely Republican voters, 68 percent support of likely independent voters, and 89 percent support of likely Democratic voters.

The complete task force report can be accessed here.

“The food industry is committed to providing the safest, freshest and most affordable food products to meet the needs of all consumers and their families. We are particularly interested in ensuring that WIC customers are able to purchase groceries online when they prefer that option, just as SNAP customers are now able to do,” said Jennifer Hatcher, chief public policy officer and SVP of government and public affairs at FMI. 

“FMI has appreciated the opportunity to participate in the Online WIC Task Force with such a knowledgeable and committed group of people and urges USDA and Congress to prioritize making improvements to the WIC program that modernize and streamline the transaction process to ensure WIC beneficiaries have additional options to secure healthy, affordable foods for their families,” Hatcher said.

Additional information about each task force member and their organizations can be found at fns.usda.gov/wic/task-force-supplemental-foods-delivery.  

The post USDA Task Force Offers Tips On Streamlining WIC Redemption appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Anthem BCBS-Ohio, Kroger Health Offer Medicare Plans Allowing Food https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2021/10/22/anthem-bcbs-ohio-kroger-health-offer-medicare-plans-allowing-food/ Fri, 22 Oct 2021 21:03:02 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=173740 Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Ohio and Kroger Health, the healthcare division of the Kroger Co., will offer new 2022 Medicare Advantage plans with benefits and services to address an individual’s whole-health needs and well-being. Eligible members enrolled in one of these plans will have benefit allowances that can be used at Kroger […]

The post Anthem BCBS-Ohio, Kroger Health Offer Medicare Plans Allowing Food appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Ohio and Kroger Health, the healthcare division of the Kroger Co., will offer new 2022 Medicare Advantage plans with benefits and services to address an individual’s whole-health needs and well-being.

Eligible members enrolled in one of these plans will have benefit allowances that can be used at Kroger Family Stores to buy nutritious food as well as health and wellness items.

“Anthem and Kroger Health share the goals of improving access to cost-effective healthcare services, driving health outcomes improvement and simplifying the healthcare experience,” said Neil Steffens, president of Anthem’s Medicare Central Region. “Anthem brings decades of experience working with consumers, clinicians, health systems and other stakeholders to ensure health plans members have access to the care and services they need.”

Eligible members in one of these new Medicare Advantage plans, called Anthem MediBlue + Kroger Dual Advantage (HMO D-SNP) and Anthem MediBlue + Kroger Access (PPO), will be given a Healthy Groceries Card, which will be loaded with up to $75 per month. They will be able to use the card to purchase healthy groceries at Kroger, reducing their monthly out-of-pocket costs and helping them achieve a balanced and nutritious diet.

These eligible members will also be given a quarterly allowance to spend on over the counter health items at Kroger. This benefit will help members reduce their out-of-pocket healthcare costs because they will be able to use their OTC allowance on everyday health-related items, like first aid supplies, support braces and pain relievers, instead of paying for the items with their own funds.

In addition, Kroger Health’s 2,200 pharmacies are in Anthem’s preferred network, which will also help reduce out-of-pocket costs for members compared to using pharmacies outside of their network.

“By partnering with Anthem, we are able to offer seniors in our communities access to affordable high quality healthcare services. And through the enhanced nutrition and OTC benefit, we can also provide preventive care using food as medicine,” said Jim Kirby, senior director of business development for Kroger Health. “Food and nutrition education are critical components of not only treating disease but preventing it before it starts.”

Eligible members will also have access to the plan’s Healthy Pantry benefit. With this benefit, members will have access to up to 12 monthly sessions with a Kroger Health dietitian who can provide nutritional education support. These members will also receive a monthly delivery of pantry staples from the grocer to help them make dietary changes.

Individuals who are interested in enrolling in a 2022 Medicare Advantage plan can do so during this year’s Medicare Annual Election Period. The AEP began Oct. 15 and continues through Dec. 7, and gives consumers enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B the opportunity to sign up for Anthem’s 2022 Medicare Advantage plans.

These plans will be available to Medicare-eligible residents in the following Ohio counties: Butler, Clermont, Greene, Hamilton, Montgomery and Warren.

For more details about these health plan benefits and Anthem’s Medicare plans, consumers can call (855) 878-1109, which is available 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Friday, April 1 to Sept. 30; and 8 a.m.-8 p.m. seven days a week, Oct. 1 to March 31. Individuals can also visit the company’s online store at shop.anthem.com/medicare.

The post Anthem BCBS-Ohio, Kroger Health Offer Medicare Plans Allowing Food appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Sprouts Natural Remedies Livestream Features Expert Health Panelists https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2021/10/13/sprouts-natural-remedies-livestream-features-expert-health-panelists/ Wed, 13 Oct 2021 20:07:42 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=173229 Sprouts Farmers Market has scheduled an exclusive wellness livestream event with selected panelists addressing how food and nutrients can ease anxiety and inflammation while supporting a healthy immune system. The event will take place at 5 p.m. PDT on Oct. 20. Attendees can participate in live polling and those who submit questions to the panelists will […]

The post Sprouts Natural Remedies Livestream Features Expert Health Panelists appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Sprouts Farmers Market has scheduled an exclusive wellness livestream event with selected panelists addressing how food and nutrients can ease anxiety and inflammation while supporting a healthy immune system.

The event will take place at 5 p.m. PDT on Oct. 20.

Attendees can participate in live polling and those who submit questions to the panelists will be eligible to win special giveaways. Registration for the free event is now open at sprouts.com/livestream.

“There are many factors contributing to increased anxiety, a lot of which can take a toll on our immune systems that eventually impact our physical health,” said Diana Lucas, Sprouts VP of vitamins. “Through this event, we will share practical tips on how to improve your overall health through the exploration of food and the discovery of vital nutrients.”

Maria Menounos, Emmy Award-winning journalist and host of the daily YouTube and podcast series “Better Together,” will lead the curated panel discussion. Her passion for helping others heal and improve their lives stems from both her and her mother’s brain tumor diagnoses. Through her podcast and daily work, she hopes to help other women take control of their lives and their own health journeys.

World-class health experts joining the conversation to offer insight on how to naturally address anxiety, inflammation and immune support include:

  • Candice Kumai – Named “The Golden Girl of Wellness” by both ELLE and Forbes, she was recently chosen as one of Arianna Huffington’s “Top 20 New Role Models.” She is a classically trained chef, former food editor-at-large at Shape and Men’s Journal, regular culture contributor on the Today Show and a six-time, best-selling author. Her latest book, “Kintsugi Wellness,” was published in 10 different languages and her seventh book will be an Audible Original focused on spiritual wellness.
  • Jordan Rubin – He is the co-founder and CEO of Ancient Nutrition, a supplement company with a mission to restore our health, strength and vitality by providing history’s healthiest whole food nutrients to the modern world. One of America’s most recognized and respected natural health experts, Rubin emphasizes the power of superfoods and supplements and is the New York Times bestselling author of “The Maker’s Diet” and 26 additional titles, including his latest work “Essential Fasting.”
  • Dr. Josh Axe – He is the co-founder of Ancient Nutrition, DrAxe.com and author of the best-selling books “Ancient Remedies,” “Keto Diet,” “Eat Dirt” and “Collagen Diet.” He has a passion to help people get healthy by empowering them to use nutrition to fuel their gut health and immune system recovery.
  • Naomi Whittel – She was named by Prevention as the leading female innovator in the natural products industry and is a fierce advocate for empowering people to take control of their health. She is the founder of The ONE Nutrition and author of “Glow15,” the New York Times best-selling book on diet and healthy lifestyles, as well as “High Fiber Keto.”

The livestream event will occur during Sprouts’ vitamin sale, which runs Oct. 20–26, where all vitamins, supplements and body care items are 20 percent off with a Sprouts account. The first 5,000 registered attendees to join the livestream will win a three-month Instacart Express membership.

Other live giveaways include a $2,500 Instacart gift card and five prize bundles of products from Ancient Nutrition and The ONE Nutrition. Attendees must have a Sprouts account to be eligible for prizes.

Sprouts inspires wellness naturally with a curated assortment of better-for-you products paired with purpose-driven people. The healthy grocer continues to bring the latest in wholesome, innovative products made with lifestyle-friendly ingredients such as organic, plant-based and gluten-free. Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, and one of the fastest-growing retailers in the country, Sprouts employs approximately 35,000 team members and operates more than 360 stores in 23 states nationwide.

The post Sprouts Natural Remedies Livestream Features Expert Health Panelists appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Nature Made Launches #TeachHealthy Campaign https://www.theshelbyreport.com/2021/10/05/nature-made-launches-teachhealthy-campaign/ Tue, 05 Oct 2021 19:07:28 +0000 https://www.theshelbyreport.com/?p=172621 Nature Made, headquartered in West Hills California, is launching the #TeachHealthy campaign to help teachers across the country through this back-to-school season. Nature Made is providing them additional support by giving more than seven million servings of immune-support products and donating $2 million to provide more than 13,000 teachers with supplies needed to maintain healthy […]

The post Nature Made Launches #TeachHealthy Campaign appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>
Nature Made, headquartered in West Hills California, is launching the #TeachHealthy campaign to help teachers across the country through this back-to-school season.

Nature Made is providing them additional support by giving more than seven million servings of immune-support products and donating $2 million to provide more than 13,000 teachers with supplies needed to maintain healthy classrooms.

“The #TeachHealthy campaign is our way of thanking teachers for the pivotal role they play in shaping the next generation by making their health a priority and ensuring they have the tools needed to teach in a healthy learning environment,” said Rhonda Hoffman, chief marketing officer at Pharmavite, the makers of Nature Made. “Our company purpose to bring the gift of health to life drives everything we do, and we’re so proud to see it manifested through this campaign.”

Nature Made is partnering with DonorsChoose, an education non-profit, to help support teachers’ immune health and fund their requests for resources under the organization’s “Health & Wellness” category. Since teachers often pay for supplies and materials for their classrooms out of pocket, Nature Made will provide a 3:1 match on every donation made to a Health & Wellness project on DonorsChoose. In addition, Nature Made is giving free ImmuneMAX and Vitamin C gummies to teachers and other school faculty who are helping create a healthy learning environment under difficult circumstances.

#TeachHealthy expands on Nature Made’s recent efforts to promote health and wellness in schools. In 2020, Nature Made donated $1 million to LAUSD’s Grab & Go food relief program and funded educational garden and backpack programs.

“Students across the country have experienced school closings and reopenings throughout the pandemic, and many are in a classroom for the first time in over a year,” said Charles Best, founder of DonorsChoose. “Teachers are going the extra mile and prioritizing their students’ well-being, whether they’re learning in-person or virtually. Our partnership with Nature Made empowers these teachers who are not only enriching their students’ education but also shaping classroom settings that are conducive to learning.”

To donate, visit: donorschoose.org.

To learn more about Nature Made’s immune support products, visit naturemade.com.

The post Nature Made Launches #TeachHealthy Campaign appeared first on Shelby Report.

]]>