When trying to maintain or lose weight many people believe that the type of food is more important than the amount of food eaten. Many Americans are eating more and do not realize that the portion sizes of their meals may affect their weight loss efforts. Eating away from home presents a challenge because of the large amounts of food served. Restaurants promote what is perceived to be the desire of the consumers: more for the money with “value-added meals” and “supersizes.” Large portions are a way of appealing to consumers, but can lead to the consumption of more food and beverages, which often mean more calories.

In the United States, an estimated 40 percent of a typical family’s food budget is spent on food that is eaten away from home. People eat out in increasing numbers for many reasons: women working outside the home, two-income households, busy schedules of children and parents and the affordability and convenience of fast food restaurants. When consumers eat out, not only does it cost more money than eating home-prepared foods but they often pay for extra calories and fat that can be detrimental to their health.