You Might Shop Healthier if You Pay in Cash

By , SparkPeople Blogger
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?