Brits spend an average of 48 hours each year talking about what they’re having for their evening meal, according to a new survey of 2,000 people. Seven in ten adults discuss their dinner daily, with conversations lasting around eight minutes. For 21% of respondents, these chats take place with co-workers, while 29% of Gen Zers admit to having three or four separate discussions about their evening meal each day.
The research highlights a national divide over what to call the meal: 58% say “dinner,” while 29% prefer “tea.” Regional preferences are strong, with Yorkshire and the Humber (58%), the North East (53%), and the North West (50%) favouring “tea.” Despite this, 76% of Brits agree that talking about and enjoying food together fosters connection. The nation’s favourite meal is the traditional roast dinner, followed by spaghetti Bolognese and fish and chips.
The study, commissioned by Slimming World, found that 68% of Brits cook their evening meals from scratch, and 62% consider themselves “food lovers.” However, nearly half (48%) are currently trying to lose weight. Registered dietitian Carolyn Pallister warned against quick fixes, stating: “When you’re desperate to lose weight, it can be tempting to chase quick fixes... The truth is, there is no magic bullet. Lasting weight loss comes from sustainable changes.”
Most people remain cautious about weight loss drugs, with 69% unlikely to use them due to concerns over inadequate nutrition (21%) and their love for food (20%). Pallister emphasised that food is “so much more than fuel” and that sharing meals builds relationships, making it a popular talking point.
