Why our supermarkets control us

In Australia, there are two main supermarket chains. Occasionally you come across an independent supermarket but they are rare. This is quite unlike the States or the UK, countries with populations large enough to support specialised chains which feature certain types of food including organic, generic or mainstream brands.

What this means for us, is that our two major chains have enormous power over what we eat by stocking the products and locating them on the shelves exactly the way it suits their bigger business interests.

While this is unlikely to change anytime soon, being aware of it at least informs you so you can make a strong decision about the brands and types of foods you wish to purchase from these chains. If customers demand products, supermarkets have to stock them but if you do not ask, you will not get.

Where you can support your local grocers and fruit and vegetable markets and look high and low on mainstream supermarket shelves to track down the exact products and brands you are after. Don't let them control the way in which you and your family are able to eat-