Supermarkets are a modern marvel, offering a cornucopia of goods that cater to every taste and need. They're a place where convenience meets necessity, and for many Australians, especially those of us in our golden years, they provide an essential service that we rely on weekly, if not daily. However, as much as we appreciate the aisles stocked with fresh produce and the shelves brimming with pantry staples, there's a less savory aspect to our shopping experience: the frustrating habits of fellow shoppers.

Now, we're not here to point fingers – after all, we've all had our off days. But it's worth taking a moment to reflect on supermarket etiquette and consider whether we might inadvertently be the cause of someone else's shopping woes. So, let's delve into the most annoying things shoppers do at the supermarket, and see if we can't all make our next grocery run a bit more pleasant for everyone involved.


The avocado groper

Ah, the quest for the perfect avocado – it's a noble pursuit, but one that should be conducted with consideration. It's understandable to want to find that ripe but not too ripe gem, but handling every single avocado in the pile is a surefire way to spread germs and bruise the fruit for the next person. Remember, a gentle squeeze at the top should suffice, and if you must check multiple avocados, do so with care and hygiene in mind.


The sniff it and see

While we're on the topic of produce, let's talk about the 'sniff it and see' shopper. This is the person who believes their nose is the ultimate judge of freshness, often at the expense of leaving their germs on the food. It's important to remember that our sense of smell can be deceiving, and it's not the most hygienic way to assess quality. Instead, look for visual cues or ask the staff for advice on the freshest picks.


The 'Don't mind if I do'

Sampling a grape might seem harmless, but when it becomes a full-blown snack session with open packets of chips or drinks, it's a different story. Supermarkets are not all-you-can-eat buffets, and consuming products before purchase is not only impolite, it's technically theft. If you're feeling peckish, many supermarkets offer free samples or have cafes where you can purchase a small snack to tide you over.

The bag raider

Grapes come in pre-weighed bags for a reason – convenience and to reduce waste. Picking through bags to take only what you want leaves behind a mess and can lead to food waste. If you only need a small amount, look for loose grapes or ask a staff member if they can accommodate your needs.

The aisle antichrist

Navigating the aisles should be a smooth experience, but some shoppers seem to have a knack for blocking the way with their trolley or unpredictable movements. Always be aware of your surroundings and make room for others to pass. If you need to leave your trolley to grab an item, park it to the side, not in the middle of the aisle.


The bread squeezer

Bread is a staple in most households, but that doesn't mean every loaf needs a thorough examination by way of squeezing. Check the best-before date and choose your loaf without compressing it into a pancake. The next person will thank you for leaving the bread in its intended shape.

The deli counter demagogue

Patience is a virtue, especially at the deli counter. Wait your turn, know what you want before you reach the front of the line, and refrain from asking for endless samples. The deli staff are there to help, but they also have other customers to serve.

The 'This will do'-er

Changing your mind is fine, but abandoning perishable items in non-refrigerated aisles is not. If you decide against a product, please return it to its proper place or hand it to a staff member. Leaving perishables out can lead to food spoilage and unnecessary waste.


The checkout chump

Finally, the checkout is where efficiency is key. If you've forgotten an item, it's better to complete your purchase and then go back for the forgotten item rather than hold up the line. And please, have your payment method ready to keep the queue moving smoothly.
So, dear readers, let's all do our part to make the supermarket a more enjoyable place for everyone. After all, shopping should be a pleasure, not a chore. Have you encountered any of these behaviors on your grocery trips, or perhaps have a pet peeve of your own to share? Let us know in the comments below – we'd love to hear your supermarket stories and tips for a harmonious shopping experience!