Perris, a city in the United States, is taking drastic measures to promote healthy eating by banning the sale of junk food at supermarket checkout aisles. This new law, which was unanimously passed by Perris’ City Council earlier this year, aims to encourage the consumption of healthier snacks and drinks by limiting the sale of unhealthy options near the register. Perris is only the second city in the U.S. to impose such regulations, following in the footsteps of Berkeley.
The ordinance has the support of Perris officials who hope that it will inspire healthier habits among residents. The checkout aisles at Stater Bros. in Perris, which previously featured items like gum, mints, and candy, now showcase healthier alternatives. This shift in product offerings reflects the city’s commitment to promoting wellness.
While some critics argue that the law unfairly targets grocery stores, exempting convenience stores and other junk food retailers, Perris Mayor Michael Vargas highlights the importance of community involvement in this decision. Vargas states that this initiative was driven by the community and is not simply a decision made by the mayor or city council.
However, others, like Stater Bros.’ CEO and board chairman Pete Van Helden, express their opposition to the ordinance, claiming that it infringes on the rights of food businesses. Van Helden argues that instead of city councils with little knowledge of the industry dictating what can be sold, collaboration with food businesses could lead to more effective solutions. Despite the opposition, Perris remains committed to its mission of promoting healthier choices at supermarket checkouts.
Perris is a city known for its younger, diverse, and economically disadvantaged population. The city is determined to address poor public health indicators, such as high rates of diabetes, sedentary lifestyles, and obesity. Research suggests that changing the placement of food in supermarkets can have a positive impact on consumer choices, making it easier for individuals to select healthier options. The Center for Science in the Public Interest, in collaboration with Public Health Advocates, worked closely with Perris officials to develop this ordinance.
In addition to the checkout ordinance, Perris has previously implemented regulations to promote healthier choices. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the city council passed an ordinance mandating water as the default drink for kids’ meals in fast-food restaurants. These initiatives align with Perris’ “Live Well Perris!” campaign, which encourages residents to embrace healthier lifestyles.
The checkout ordinance, which went into effect in February 2023, applies to grocery stores larger than 2,500 square feet. It prohibits the sale of snacks and drinks containing more than 200 calories per package, trans fats, more than 35% of calories from total sugars, or more than 200 milligrams of sodium within 6 feet of a cash register. Nuts, seeds, and legumes are exempt from these restrictions. The ordinance does not prevent the sale of sugary and high-calorie items elsewhere in the supermarket.
The impact of this law extends to 15 stores in Perris, including large retailers like Stater Bros., Cardenas Markets, Food 4 Less, Aldi, WinCo Foods, Wal-Mart Supercenter, and Dollar General. While several grocers have expressed support for promoting healthier lifestyles, they also emphasize the importance of consumer choice and fair treatment towards all retailers.
After receiving feedback from the grocers association, Perris officials made some recommended changes to the ordinance. These include extending the compliance deadline to January 1 and allowing a maximum 20-ounce size for fruit and vegetable juices. The city council has given preliminary approval to these changes in August. Stater Bros. CEO Pete Van Helden acknowledges the improvements but highlights the potential negative consequences of the original ordinance, such as possible job losses.
Perris remains committed to its goal of improving public health and will continue to collaborate with community members and food businesses to find innovative solutions. With this law in place, Perris hopes to inspire other cities and communities to prioritize healthier options and take steps towards a healthier future.
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