Despite some signs that grocery shopping may be getting closer to normal, one recent survey showed that many of us don’t expect our grocery shopping routine to return to the way it used to be anytime soon. Now, another survey indicates that this new normal could be hazardous to our wallets, our waistlines and our mental health.

According to the market insights firm C+R Research, nearly half of us are spending more on groceries, and buying and eating more unhealthy foods. And if that isn’t stressful enough, many of us have witnessed “grocery rage” in stores – or even been a party to it.

45% of survey respondents said they’re spending more money on groceries these days, with the average cost of a single grocery trip rising from $159 to $184. That’s partly because we’ve been stocking up and buying more than we usually would during one grocery trip. And it’s partly because many stores are offering fewer money-saving promotions.

When looking for a particular item, “brand loyalty has taken a backseat,” C+R found. “Overall, 76% said they do not go out of their way to find their favorite brands.” And 52% said they will buy whatever is available rather than looking for the best deal – largely because they have little choice. After all, if you need toilet paper and can’t find your usual brand, or there’s no toilet paper on sale, are you really going to refuse to buy it until you can get a good deal on your favorite brand? 88% of shoppers said they can’t find certain items they normally buy – so most of us have had to make compromises at times, buying a needed item no matter the brand and no matter the price.  Coupons in the News article here.