The centuries-old grocery store advises to “walk around the perimeter” and avoid the center aisles for healthiest food This possibility is somewhat outdated — and even risks shoppers ignoring nutritious foods, two dietitians told Fox News Digital.
The advice to only buy produce on the perimeter or edges of a grocery store is “a little outdated as a universal rule,” said Lauren Manaker, a registered dietitian based in Charleston, South Carolina.
“The idea comes from the fact that fresh produce, dairy products and meats are usually located around grocery stores,” she said.
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“But this approach overlooks a ton of nutritious, convenient and affordable options found in center aisles.”
For example, a person who “only shops the perimeter” would miss out on nutrient-dense foods such as “canned tuna, frozen fruit and whole-grain quinoa,” Manaker said.
While fresh, unprocessed foods are typically found at the edges of grocery stores, healthy options can also be found in the center aisles, a registered dietitian (not pictured) told Fox News Digital. (iStock)
“These foods are packed with nutrients, have a long shelf life, and can be incredibly versatile in your kitchen,” she added.
Dr. Phyllis Pobee, a board-certified physician specializing in genetic weight loss, shared similar sentiments with Fox News Digital. Pobee is the Toronto-based founder of GeneLean360°, a weight loss and wellness consulting company.
“Turn your runs into a powerful tool to maintain and improve your health.”
She shared several tips for maximizing a trip to the grocery store, including planning meals before making a list, adopting whole foods on processed products and is considering adding “superfoods” to the diet.
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“While traditional perimeter shopping tips are helpful, incorporating these personalized strategies based on genetic information and a deeper understanding of food labels can turn your groceries into a powerful tool for maintaining and improving your health,” she said.
Eating whole foods means “filling your basket with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins,” Pobee said.
It is wise to seek out “seasonal and local produce whenever possible.” (iStock)
“Even though these items are spread throughout the store, look for them to ensure a nutrient-dense diet,” she said.
Pobee also suggested the wisdom of seeking out “seasonal and local produce whenever possible.”
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“These options are often more nutrient-dense and fresher than their off-season counterparts, which must travel long distances and are typically treated with preservatives,” she said.
Rather than relying on advice like “shop the perimeter,” shoppers should take a more holistic approach, Manaker suggested.
According to experts, someone who “only browses the perimeter” of a grocery store would miss out on nutrient-dense foods like canned tuna. (iStock)
“Shopping smarter means reading labels and understanding what works best for your health goals, lifestyle and budget,” she said.
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A person should aim to “look for options rich in essential nutrients like fiber, protein and healthy fats, while being aware of added sugars and sodium content,” she said.
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“And don’t forget to explore the center aisles,” she said.
They’re full of “healthy staples like beans, whole grainsnuts and even great frozen or canned options that make a balanced diet easier.
