Kroger launches telenutrition services

Kroger’s healthcare division, Kroger Health, is rolling out a free telenutrition service aimed at helping shoppers with new eating routines during the COVID-19 pandemic. The service, led by Kroger dietitians, is part of the company’s “Food as Medicine” platform. 

Kroger said that a recent consumer trends survey conducted by its intelligence arm 84.51° found big shifts in consumer trends. Fifty-one percent of consumers said they are cooking and baking more often than in the past, with 40% saying they are eating more comfort and indulgent food. Another 40% of respondents said they have purchased more packaged foods than usual and 46% said they are snacking more throughout the day. 

"The COVID-19 pandemic has changed shopping, cooking and eating routines for households across America," said Jim Kirby, senior director of Kroger Health. "Many families and individuals are for the first time exclusively relying on cooking for meals, some with limited budgets and nutrition knowledge. Through Kroger Health's telenutrition service, our dietitians are providing free personalized nutrition advice to help our customers shop for and prepare delicious and affordable nutritious meals."

The telenutrition services include a complimentary video consultation with a registered dietitian, as well as personalized support and plans for individuals and families. It also includes management of food-related health concerns, including weight maintenance or loss, GI conditions and eating disorders, as well as nutrition plans related to fertility, oncology and more, the company said. 

The service is free throughout the pandemic, including for patients on Medicare and Medicaid. Customers can schedule unlimited visits with the code COVID.