A new study has revealed that more than half of Britons are stuck in a mealtime rut, cooking just six different meals on a repeat cycle. The research, which surveyed 2,000 adults, found that 59 per cent tend to rotate the same dishes week after week, with 46 per cent even sticking to specific meals on particular days.
The most popular go-to meals include spaghetti bolognese, fish and chips, curry, roast dinner, pizza, and stir fry. On average, an evening meal takes 40 minutes to prepare, with 59 per cent of respondents saying their choice is often dictated by how much time they have available.
Common barriers to changing eating habits include lack of time (29 per cent), budget constraints (23 per cent), and low cooking skills (22 per cent). Despite this, more than a quarter of those surveyed said they would like to reshape their mealtime habits in the coming year, with 43 per cent aiming for healthier options and 31 per cent seeking more flavour.
Simon Langley of KitchenAid UK & Ireland, which commissioned the study, noted: 'It's easy to get stuck into a simple routine when it comes to food and it can be difficult to find inspiration or motivation to mix things up.' He added that eating more creative meals need not be complex or time-consuming.
Chef John Gregory Smith, who collaborated with KitchenAid on the research, commented: 'Time is one of the key constraints when it comes to cooking, we all lead busy lives and sometimes food can be bottom of the pile – but you can always make something amazing in minutes.' The study also found that a tenth of people are more likely to stick to a new eating plan if it is 'easy'.
