The effect of demographic, economic, and nutrition factors on the frequency of food away from home

Abstract

Food away from home, especially fast food, is often cited as contributing to obesity and other nutritional problems. This negative publicity can affect demand. Models explaining visits to table service and fast food restaurants are estimated, with nutrition variables added to standard demographic measures. Demographic effects are similar to those in past studies. Nutrition factors have little impact on table service, but nutrition-orientated consumers tend to have lower fast food consumption. Copyright 2006 by The American Council on Consumer Interests.