Why does a bag of chips seem more expensive than a bag of fruit, when in reality it’s not? There is a perception that unhealthy and processed foods are more accessible and affordable in the market, which, over the years, has led me to the truth that this misconceived belief has been driven by marketing and convenience. Many times, these advertisements don’t sell for nourishment, but rather for their convenience.
In the food industry, what the markets really supply differs from the assumptions of what the market offers for certain products. In particular, fast food companies use a marketing technique targeted at young consumers and low-income groups to sell the idea that they are receiving more for less: “buy 2, get one free” or “combo for a cheaper price.” This is a typical trick that the majority fall into, believing that they are buying more for cheaper.
However, many don’t come to realize that they are choosing to buy extra for quantity, not quality. This is mainly the reason why some forget or don’t realize that fruits and vegetables rarely get marketed—because they are natural foods, not commercial products.
It is another misconception that unhealthy and processed foods fall only into the surroundings of low-income groups, when the choice of getting fast food becomes a habit for individuals who seek convenience, not affordability. As a result, the tendency to grab and go because of speed, over time, becomes costly to the human body. In the long run, those who spend their lives relying on fast, “cheap” foods end up spending more on medical debt.
The fast food industry has successfully managed to normalize the idea of “treating yourself” or “you deserve a reward” the moment someone sees a full-size, perfectly packaged meal. With that common saying, I believe that the majority have forgotten that the most realistic and affordable foods are the raw and natural products, which shouldn’t be perceived as “extra effort” or that eating healthy is a luxury. Saving ourselves from future health risks is a choice, but to do so requires a few adjustments to habits and lifestyle.
Image: Getty Images
