Why We Eat Fast Food

Researchers asked adolescents and adults who regularly eat at fast-food restaurants to participate in a trial that looked the effect of nutrition labeling on meal choices. The participants were asked how they felt about 11 statements that gave reasons for eating at fast-food restaurants. Responses indicated the most frequently reported reasons were: fast food is quick (92%), restaurants are easy to get to (80%), and food tastes good (69%). At the bottom of the list were: eating fast food is a way of socializing with family and friends (33%), restaurants have nutritious foods to offer (21%), and restaurants are fun and entertaining (12%). Demographic factors caused some differences in the responses. The study concluded that nutrition professionals should identify alternative quick and convenient food sources and that tailored responses by age, sex, education, employment status, and household size, tailored interventions might be appropriate.