This is right up my alley since I am a checker at a grocery store You are right they should know the difference between a cucumber and zucchini regardless of training. As far as asking how something tastes I am guilty of that but that is because at least for myself I really do want to know as seeing someone come through my line might be the only time I see someone buying that particular product. So at least for me it isn't meant to be all up in your business and it might just might be the same with your checker. Now for my pet peeves at the grocery store: bratty kids running around or screaming their heads off, people in line gabbing on their cells not paying attention to what is going on (i.e. what they are doing on the payment machine or answering checkers questions in a timely manner), paper or plastic sir? Really it isn't a freakin SAT question, on the self check out pay attention to what the machine is saying and don't get pissy with the checker cause you aren't paying attention to the prompts, people who put in a veggie bag more then one variety of apple or any fruit or veggie. Ok yes I understand save the planet and I thank you but recycle the bags, there are others behind you in line, and why must people look for that one darn penny? Ok those are my pet peeves at the grocery store. Oh before anyone yells at me over all at my new company I work for I like my job and over all they are much better then Safeway customers by a long shot! I almost heart Kroger