Seven in 10 adults in the UK talk about what they’re having for dinner every day, collectively spending an astonishing 48 hours a year on the topic, recent research reveals. A survey of 2,000 people found that Brits who discuss their dinner on a daily dedicate an average of eight minutes to the conversation. For 21% of those surveyed, these chats take place with co-workers.
Gen Z leads the trend, with 29% admitting to having three or four separate discussions about their evening meal each day. However, a debate continues to simmer over what the evening meal is called as the study found the nation is divided. According to the study, 58% refer to the evening meal as “dinner,” while 29% call it “tea.” Regional preferences also play a significant role as Yorkshire and Humber (58%), the North East (53%), and the North West (50%) favour “tea” over “dinner.”
Despite these differences, 76% of respondents agree that talking about and enjoying food together fosters a sense of connection. Not surprisingly, the traditional roast dinner ranks as the nation’s most beloved meal, ahead of spaghetti Bolognese and fish and chips.
Carolyn Pallister, a registered dietitian and head of nutrition, research, and health at Slimming World, which commissioned the study, emphasised the happiness that food can bring.
She said, “Food is so much more than fuel for us as humans. Sitting down to eat with others brings many of us a lot of pleasure. It can create connections and build relationships – that’s why food is at the centre of so many big events in our lives and is such a popular talking point.”
The research also found that 68% of those who eat an evening meal cook it from scratch, with 62% of respondents describing themselves as “food lovers.”
However, nearly half (48%) of the UK population is currently trying to lose weight, although four in 10 (41%) reject the idea that losing weight means giving up their favourite meals.
“When you’re desperate to lose weight, it can be tempting to chase quick fixes – weight loss injections, pills, surgery, a restrictive or fad diet, anything that promises instant results,” explained Carolyn. “These might involve suppressing your appetite, depriving yourself or not being able to eat with others as your diet is so different.
While weight loss drugs are becoming more widely available, 69% of respondents said they would be unlikely to use them. Among those hesitant, concerns include inadequate nutrition (21%) and a love for food (20%).
Carolyn added, “The truth is there is no magic bullet. Lasting weight loss comes from sustainable changes to our food, physical activity, and mindset – and getting the support to make those changes last.”
