Giant Food campaign challenges health habits during May

Giant Food is encouraging customers to participate in a virtual challenge during May.

The Landover, Md.-based retailer has rolled out its #HealthyAtHome #GiantFoodChallenge, which looks to offer guidance on ways to stay active and healthy, while maintaining social distancing guidelines and also fostering virtual connections.

The challenge is led by its in-house team of 11 licensed nutrition professionals, and was modeled after the World Health Organization’s #HealthyAtHome campaign, the company said.

Hosted on Giant’s website and social media channels, the challenge encourages participants to add healthier options to their plates and also incorporates fitness and movement activities.

“As the fatigue of sheltering in place wears on, we've been hearing from many of our customers a desire to move more and eat healthier,” Lisa Coleman, director of healthy living at Giant Food, said. “We're hoping this challenge will help to get our community moving towards a healthier lifestyle, and engaging with one another in a fun and safe way. Ultimately, if we all do our part to stay healthy — and at home — it will help protect essential workers like our associates who can't stay home because of the vital role they play in our communities.”

For the first week, participants are challenged to eat a fruit or vegetable at every meal, and also take 10 minutes each day to stretch.

Week two encourages trying a new fruit or vegetable each day, preparing a favorite in a different way, and getting in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.

In week three, participants are encouraged to include a whole grain into their meals or snacks, and also find a new fitness class to try online.

For the fourth and final week, a meatless meal every day is encouraged, as is an increase in daily steps taken.

No registration or cost is needed to participate. Each week’s challenges will be kicked off at the retailer's online Nutrition at Noon class every Monday in May at 12 p.m. EST, the company said.

In addition, Giant Food is encouraging participants to share their own experiences on social media by using the #HealthyAtHome and #GiantFoodChallenge hashtags.