It seems that the product layout of supermarkets does influence our purchases. A novel study conducted over six months found that women buy more fresh fruits and vegetables when placed near supermarkets’ entrances. While there had been similar studies already, this research utilised two interventions simultaneously; their respondents ended up buying more healthy food than in other studies, suggesting it’s not enough to display healthy food at entrances but also that stores must stop placing junk food in prominent areas. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
