You Might Shop Healthier if You Pay in Cash
By: Jen Mueller,
SparkPeople Blogger
11/9/2010 9:08 AM
: 82 comments
: 14,365 Views
I rarely pay for things with cash these days, mostly because it’s so convenient to use my debit card. There aren’t many places that don’t take cards, although I’ll admit that I’m a little embarrassed when I have to charge a $2.00 roll of paper towels because I’ve only got $0.50 in my wallet. Paying with a card is so easy that I know I don’t always think as much about what I’m putting in my cart. If I had to pay with cash, I have a feeling I’d be more careful. Research shows I’m not the only one.
The study, published in the Journal of Consumer Research, assessed the shopping habits of 1,000 consumers over a 6-month period. It found that when shoppers paid with a credit card, they were more likely to make the impulsive junk food purchases, compared to those who paid with cash. Researchers theorize that it’s more painful for people to part with their cash, so they might think twice about the extra bag of potato chips if they know it’s going to take a few more bills out of their wallet. According to the study, only 14% of American shoppers pay for their groceries with cash.
The study also found that consumers were less likely to buy impulsively if they did their shopping on the weekend, versus during the week. That makes sense, since you’re more likely to run into the store after work to pick up an ingredient for dinner (and grab a bag of M&M’s in the checkout if you’re hungry),versus taking a planned weekend trip to the store with grocery list in-hand.
Results showed "that participants regret impulsively spending money on unhealthy food products. Impulsive purchases of unhealthy food products seem to be made on momentary feelings rather than on deliberative consideration of consequences of the consumption." If you’re often tempted by the aisles of candy, cookies and salty snacks, try making a grocery list and paying with cash. Also check out 7 Secrets to Outsmart Your Supermarket for more tips to stay on track at the store!
Do you pay for groceries with cash or credit? Do you take a list with you when you shop? Do you feel like either of those things influence your purchases?
The study, published in the Journal of Consumer Research, assessed the shopping habits of 1,000 consumers over a 6-month period. It found that when shoppers paid with a credit card, they were more likely to make the impulsive junk food purchases, compared to those who paid with cash. Researchers theorize that it’s more painful for people to part with their cash, so they might think twice about the extra bag of potato chips if they know it’s going to take a few more bills out of their wallet. According to the study, only 14% of American shoppers pay for their groceries with cash.
The study also found that consumers were less likely to buy impulsively if they did their shopping on the weekend, versus during the week. That makes sense, since you’re more likely to run into the store after work to pick up an ingredient for dinner (and grab a bag of M&M’s in the checkout if you’re hungry),versus taking a planned weekend trip to the store with grocery list in-hand.
Results showed "that participants regret impulsively spending money on unhealthy food products. Impulsive purchases of unhealthy food products seem to be made on momentary feelings rather than on deliberative consideration of consequences of the consumption." If you’re often tempted by the aisles of candy, cookies and salty snacks, try making a grocery list and paying with cash. Also check out 7 Secrets to Outsmart Your Supermarket for more tips to stay on track at the store!
Do you pay for groceries with cash or credit? Do you take a list with you when you shop? Do you feel like either of those things influence your purchases?
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Comments
Helps save on calories and money in the fact that my list is all I get and I can ONLY use my cash to get it - 11/11/2010 8:20:52 PM
There have been so many times when I go to the store and the debit machine is down. I find it such an inconvenience.
I carry cash. If I have the money then I will buy. If I don't. I guess I don't need it that bad. It sure does cut the impulsive spending. - 11/10/2010 4:09:52 PM
In a month I shall be without a job so I think now more than ever it will be important to spend cash based on a pre-determined weekly allowance. It will allow me to track my money more closely and not go over budget.
- 11/10/2010 11:03:44 AM
Lately there has been a fundraiser with grocery store gift cards. Although I abhor gift cards.... buying enough for a month highlights the costs. It makes me spend on healthy foods. - 11/10/2010 6:48:39 AM
Since I rarely eat out now, I am cooking for about the first time in my 50+ years of eating, and just started using a list about 2 weeks ago. Only problem, I keep forgetting to bring the list! - 11/10/2010 4:07:58 AM
Jocelyn - 11/10/2010 1:31:10 AM
The best thing that I've come up with is taking a calculator to the store with me and adding up my purchases as I go. It makes me realize how much I'm spending along the way, and the value (or not) of junk food. It also makes me stick to my grocery list better.
Jocelyn - 11/10/2010 1:23:48 AM
When it comes to shopping I have though to admit, that I rarely use a shopping list. Mostly because I want to get inspired by the vegetables in store that seems to be of good quality. (I hate to make a plan for a nice meal, but then I can't get all the ingredients I need). In addition I am also beeing influenced by offers and special promotions. One sideeffect is though that I am not only emotionally buying vegetables and fruits but unfortunately also rather unhealthy items like cookies or chocolate. If I don't have them at home I won't eat them, but if I bought them they are quite quickly gone again.... - 11/10/2010 12:07:29 AM
I batch shop for teh season, bying things that are difficult to transport in blizzards(TP, paper towels, detergent,etc) in summer, never buy an labeled brands without a coupon or markdown,, same on meat and fish..
shop at bread store, reclaimed grocery store for many staples,,
I never carry a balance and have never paid interest or finance charges on a card,, but have the highest level of a credit score possible..
This is essential for retirement, when income drops and needs are greater for big items!! - 11/9/2010 4:27:57 PM
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