United Supermarkets Invests More Than $1 Million to Expand Health and Wellness Programs

In recognition of National Nutrition Month, United Supermarkets will begin launching several new initiatives as part of its more than $1 million investment into the growth of its health and wellness programs for guests and team members. “From offering fresh, quality products in our stores to providing expert nutrition education and advice, United is committed to supporting the health and wellness of our guests and team members,” said Robert Taylor, CEO for United Supermarkets, LLC. “We hope to lead as a positive example in our industry and the communities we serve by helping our guests find solution to their individual health needs.” Internally, United has expanded its health and wellness department by adding four registered dietitians who lead the health and wellness programs in stores and for the company. United also implemented a new results-based team member wellness program internally, based on preventative screenings to encourage team members to either maintain their health or improve their health risk factors by adopting positive changes in their lives. Employees who show improvement on their health risk factors will receive a discount on their medical premiums. Guests will see in-store changes as Market Street locations will offer weekly tours with registered dietitians to help guests learn how to best support their specific dietary needs and achieve their health goals. Guests can view the schedule and register online or in stores for tours which will cover a variety of nutrition topics, including:

Additionally, Corporate Chef Chris Wilson will introduce the Market Street spring and summer Living Well menu in March, featuring seasonal items in new meals created to meet healthy nutrition guidelines set by United’s registered dietitians. “We want to be the total health and wellness destination of choice for our guests,” said Robin Hawkins, MS, RD, LD, United health and wellness director. “The theme for National Nutrition Month 2012 is ‘Get Your Plate in Shape’, and we want to encourage everyone to include healthy foods in appropriate portions from all food groups in their eating plans by giving them the tools and knowledge to do so.” In early April, United will make it even easier for store guests to trade up for health while shopping by adding “Dietitians’ Top Picks” to the current chain-wide NuVal nutrition scoring system. As the first grocery chain in Texas to implement NuVal, United will enhance the program further by highlighting the highest-scoring products in each food category on their aisles, making it possible for guests to always shop with guidance from a dietitian.