Introduction of Warning Images and Labels on Shopping Carts

First Petition Submitted to the EU Against Neuromarketing Practices

I have officially submitted my first petition to the European Parliament's Committee on Petitions, calling for action against harmful neuromarketing practices in the retail sector. The petition will only become eligible for public support once the Committee formally admits it for consideration. This marks the beginning of a broader effort to challenge manipulative design strategies that push consumers toward over‑purchasing and contribute to the obesity crisis and unnecessary waste. Below is the full text of the petition I filed.

Introduction of Warning Images and Labels on Shopping Carts

Dear Committee on Petitions,

I, the undersigned, respectfully request that the European Union introduce mandatory warning images and labels on shopping carts and baskets used in grocery stores. The purpose of these warnings is to draw consumers' attention to the health and environmental risks associated with over‑purchasing, particularly obesity and unnecessary waste generation.

In modern retail environments, the size of shopping carts has increased significantly. Numerous studies show that larger carts function as powerful neuromarketing tools: people tend to place 30–40% more items into them solely because of their size. This phenomenon is linked to the Delboeuf illusion, which demonstrates that a larger frame or surface makes the contents appear "less" than they actually are. Oversized carts therefore distort consumer perception and encourage overconsumption.

Over‑purchasing is not only a financial and environmental issue but also a serious public health concern. Obesity shortens the lives of an estimated five million people worldwide each year and is one of the fastest‑growing public health crises. Warning images and labels placed on shopping carts—similar to those used on tobacco packaging—could serve as an effective tool to reduce harmful behaviors.

I also ask the Committee to consider that since March 2024, I have approached several major grocery chains to advocate for the introduction of such warnings, but unfortunately without success. Further information: www.nopehaul.com

I respectfully request that the Committee examine the possibility of introducing EU‑wide regulation requiring scientifically grounded warning labels on shopping carts and baskets to inform consumers about the risks of over‑purchasing, obesity, and waste generation.

Sincerely, Zoltán Bíró

How Overproduction and Overselling Create Massive Food Waste — and How NOPE HAUL Could Cut It

The Psychology of Waste Aversion and the Retail‑Driven Obesity Crisis

The Delboeuf Illusion: How Your Eyes Trick Your Stomach — and How Stores Use It Against You

They Took Our Loved Ones From Us — Hold the Food Industry Accountable