Nearly half of people admit to arguing or even breaking up with their other half over 'stolen food'. A survey of 2,000 people from tombola arcade revealed that couples take food ownership very seriously.
One in seven admit they have even set up hidden cameras or placed traps to catch their partners in the act of stealing food. The new study reveals that snack theft has become a surprisingly common source of relationship tension, with more than half of the country admitting they've taken food that wasn't theirs, and exactly half saying they've hidden snacks to avoid sharing.
Brits are going to extraordinary lengths to hide snacks from their partners, with one in ten stashing treats in toilet cisterns, while others turn to tampon boxes, dog treat containers and underwear drawers to protect their favourite nibbles.
Where are Brits hiding their snacks from their partners?
- Under the bed - 24%
- In a high place my partner can't reach - 20%
- In the car - 20%
- In a filing cabinet at work - 18%
- Underwear drawer - 16%
- In a dog treat box - 14%
- Under floorboards - 12%
- Behind a bath panel - 10%
- Inside a toilet cistern - 10%
- In the washing machine - 6%
Gemma Logan, relationships expert at The Stag Company, said: "In most cases, hiding snacks is a bit playful and harmless. Many couples laugh about it once it comes to light. It can even become an ongoing joke or a light-hearted rivalry."
"However, it's worth paying attention to the emotional tone behind it. If the behaviour is driven by frustration, resentment, or a sense of inequality, it can signal a deeper issue. If one partner feels they have to hide things to get their needs met, whether that is time, food, or attention, it may point to a lack of communication."
"In relationships that are less secure, this behaviour might be interpreted as selfish or secretive. A practical solution is to create a balance between personal and shared items. Having a few treats or a designated space that are understood to belong to each person can remove the need for secrecy."
"It respects individuality while also still maintaining a sense of togetherness."
