Survey Reveals Taste and Cost Drive Online Takeout Decisions Over Caloric Content

Recent research published in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health indicates that the primary factors influencing online takeout orders are taste and price, rather than calorie content. This finding emerges despite the implementation of calorie labeling laws aimed at encouraging healthier eating choices.

According to the survey of 1,040 adult consumers in England, younger individuals and those living with obesity are more inclined to order takeout. The limited effectiveness of calorie labeling suggests the need for additional strategies to foster healthier eating habits, as frequent consumption of takeout foods is associated with poorer dietary quality and increased caloric intake.

The study revealed that many respondents overestimated the caloric content of meals, indicating a lack of accurate knowledge regarding nutrition. The average estimated calorie count for a meal was 747 kcal, significantly higher than the recommended 600 kcal, with only 15% of participants correctly identifying the recommended caloric intake.

The survey highlighted that around two-thirds of participants were women, with more than half aged between 35 and 55. Notably, a significant portion of respondents, approximately 27%, reported ordering takeout at least once a week, while 41% did so every two to four weeks. Younger consumers, particularly those under 35, were found to order takeout more frequently compared to older demographics.

Despite the widespread awareness of calorie labeling legislation--63% of respondents acknowledged its existence--many did not notice any calorie information during their last online order. Among those who did see calorie information, a staggering 71% stated it did not influence their food choices. The primary motivators for selecting takeout were taste, followed closely by price and delivery time. In contrast, health considerations were deemed significantly more important when it came to home-cooked meals.

Additionally, the research pointed out that many participants expressed a desire for clearer labeling, such as traffic light systems and healthier alternatives, to promote better food choices. Approximately half of the respondents supported the idea of imposing higher prices on less healthy items as a deterrent.

This study serves as an observational analysis and does not establish causation. The researchers emphasize the complexity surrounding efforts to enhance the healthiness of takeout foods, noting that calorie labeling appears to have minimal impact on consumer choices. They advocate for further research across diverse populations to better understand the motivations behind takeout consumption and the effectiveness of calorie labeling in promoting healthier habits.

In conclusion, while calorie labeling may influence a minority of consumers, its integration into a broader strategy aimed at addressing obesity and poor dietary habits is necessary to ensure its effectiveness without further exacerbating health inequalities.