The top food turn-offs, or “icks”, include licking fingers when eating, double-dipping – and eating with your mouth open, according to research. The study, of 2,000 adults, revealed 60 percent can’t stand people who are rude to waiters, while 49 percent hate it when someone spits something back onto their plate.
Other “icks” include playing with food, criticising someone’s cooking, and putting ketchup on every meal.
And 63 percent admitted food was important to them when it comes to relationships – with 21 percent claiming it would cause a rift if their partner didn’t enjoy their favourite meal.
The stats emerged in a study commissioned by Domino’s, to mark its partnership with Cadbury’s Crème Egg with a “Domino’s Cookie with Crème Egg”.
Psychologist and love expert, Jo Hemmings, said: “Over the years, I’ve been able to get a real insight into relationships and what makes people tick – and something that always comes up on top is food.
“Food really is an important element when it comes to relationships and dating. You can always a tell a thing or two by a person’s eating and food habits – so, whether you’re lucky in love, or can’t stand the sight of Valentine’s Day, remember to keep these top ticks and icks in mind.”
The study also found that, while there’s an abundance of food icks which turn us off, only 28 percent would be willing to speak out on a first date.
There’s a short shrift for fussy eaters, too, with 23 percent unwilling to date someone who sticks to the straight and narrow.
If you’re looking to win over a potential suitor, a meal is a good way of going about it, as 82 percent admit food makes them happy.
Having someone cook for you (54 percent), a surprise date night, and someone else doing the tidying up after you’ve cooked (both 35 percent), are also among the top food turn-ons.
And the other half picking up the bill was also a positive for 35 percent – particularly for women (42 percent), compared to just 27 percent of men.
However, if you’re wondering whether going out might be the answer, think again – as a takeaway at home (55 percent) far outweighs a night out (21 percent).
A spokesman for Domino’s, which is allowing people to test their love compatibility at www.lovedommeter.co.uk, said: “Whether you like your crust stuffed, or your wedges double-dipped, it’s clear that food can make or break a relationship.
“Pizza is perfect for those struggling with date night indecisiveness – so if you’re debating what you want for dinner, leave it to us to tingle the tastebuds this Valentine’s Day, with a piping hot delivery that is guaranteed to give you love at first slice.”
