Two chains launch health sites

Supermarket chains Albertsons and Harris Teeter have launched online tools to help shoppers pursue health and wellness.

Albertsons, a 460-store subsidiary of Supervalu based in Fullerton, Calif., got its clinical pharmacist involved when it designed a new online community, http://www.AlbertsonsWellbeing.com/.

Developed in conjunction with Dr. Jeff Ward, Albertsons' clinical pharmacist, and Heidi Miller, RD, the chain's nutritionist, the stand-alone website was designed to be a daily wellness resource for consumers "to make food, cooking, and healthy choices that are smart for themselves and their families," according to Stephanie Martin, director of communications and public affairs for Albertsons.

Harris Teeter, a 192-store chain in Matthews, N.C., has relaunched its "Your Wellness" holistic health program for families. At its website, http://www.harristeeter.com/, Harris Teeter provides nutrition and menu planning information, stress management techniques, recipes, and other information on health and wellness. In addition, shoppers can watch online videos about how to read nutritional labels and other health topics.

In the section of the site titled "Your Wellness Pharmacy," Harris Teeter provides a complete database of vitamins, minerals, and herbs. "You can also learn about what to take and why, as well as vitamin interactions that you may be unfamiliar with," said a statement at the site.

Harris Teeter is also sending out a bi-monthly e-newsletter with health tips, cooking demonstrations, and videos.