Study finds healthier packaged foods are pricier, impacting consumer budgets

A joint study conducted by food-rating app Yuka and Harvard Law School’s Food Law and Policy Clinic compared the prices and nutritional value of 805 packaged foods, including cereals, bread, pizza, and snack bars. The researchers found that eating healthier is more expensive. The study also noted that groceries cost 2.2% more in August compared to a year earlier.

The findings highlight a conflict between consumer health goals and financial realities, particularly among Gen Z students. While 58% of college students would spend more on healthier groceries if money were not an issue, nine in 10 students reported cutting back on food or skipping meals due to budget constraints.