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Social and Demographic Correlates of Fast Food Consumption: A Review of Recent Findings in the United States and Worldwide

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

To describe the social, demographic, and health correlates of fast food (FF) consumption.

Recent Findings

There does not appear to be a consistent definition or measurement method for FF intake, which may limit attempts to synthesize findings. However, we did analyze results based on these varying measurements and found consistent results. While FF consumption is very common across all respondents, it is more frequent among those who are younger, Black, and male. FF consumption varies by income, with middle-income and wealthier people consuming more. Although increasingly common worldwide, FF consumption appears to vary based upon cultural norms. Immigrants may show FF intake more in line with the norms of their country of origin than their new environment. Employed individuals appear to consume more FF. This is especially true among highly educated women. Job-related factors, such as the type of work and a higher number of hours worked, are associated with higher FF consumption. Longitudinal studies have noted that increased FF intake predicts increased BMI and adiposity, predisposing those to lifestyle-derived illnesses.

Summary

Young Black men tend to consume the greatest amount of FF, even when they have university degrees and well-paying jobs. Sociodemographic factors, such as gender, education, employment, and race/ethnicity often interact and indicate greater specificity is needed into how FF consumption fits into lived context.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA

    Kelsey Ufholz & James J. Werner

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  1. Kelsey Ufholz
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KU wrote the main manuscript text. JW provided editing and feedback. Both authors reviewed the manuscript

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Correspondence to Kelsey Ufholz.

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Ufholz, K., Werner, J.J. Social and Demographic Correlates of Fast Food Consumption: A Review of Recent Findings in the United States and Worldwide. Curr Cardiovasc Risk Rep 17, 233–243 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12170-023-00730-5

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