The sneaky thing that causes you to overeat
New research shows the way foods are depicted on packaging influences how much we eat.
The study, carried out by the Cornell University Food and Brand Lab, found consumers were more likely to overestimate their serving sizes of cake when the cake-mix boxes featured large slices topped with icing. The average slice of cake pictured on the box contains 135 per cent more calories than the recommended serving size.
"If we see a slice of cake smothered in frosting on the cake box, we think that is what is normal to serve and eat, but that's not what is reflected in the serving size recommendation on the nutrition label," said lead author and researcher John Brand.
The team surveyed 72 university students and 44 women working in the food service industry. Both groups overestimated the portion sizes after looking at the packaging of cake mix, with the group of women serving themselves an extra 122 calories.
"Seemingly small elements of packaging can have a huge impact," said fellow researcher and Cornell professor, Brian Wansink.
The team recommend companies print phrases like “frosting not included” on the nutritional labelling.
Related links:
5 herbal teas to relax aches and pains
Is coconut water really good for you?
Easy symptoms of arthritis with these 3 nutrients