Leafy greens have a superstar reputation, but Americans have clear favorites when it comes to taste and nutrition. A YouGov poll shows just how often people eat greens, which ones top their salad bowls, and why kale isn’t quite living up to the hype. From iceberg’s taste appeal to spinach’s nutritional glow-up, here’s how Americans really feel about their greens.
Salad Is a Weekly Staple for Many
Forty percent of Americans say they eat salad at least a few times a week—and 6% eat it daily. Another 38% reach for leafy greens at least a few times a month. Only 4% say they never touch the stuff. Unsurprisingly, people with higher incomes are more likely to eat salad regularly.
Smoothies? Not So Much
While salads are common, smoothies aren’t. A full 60% of Americans say they rarely or never drink them. Only 3% enjoy a smoothie daily. Younger adults and those with higher incomes are more likely to blend up their greens a few times a week.
Iceberg Reigns in Taste, Not Nutrition
Iceberg lettuce gets top marks for flavor, with 18% saying it tastes best. It’s also the most popular salad base, chosen by 25% of Americans. But 38% call it the least nutritious green—by far the highest in that category.
Spinach Is the Nutritional MVP
Spinach stands tall as the most nutritious leafy green, according to 33% of Americans. It’s also among the top picks for taste, with 15% choosing it as the best-tasting green. It performs well across the board—from salads to smoothies.
Kale Can’t Catch a Break
Kale’s superfood status hasn’t won over many fans. Only 17% call it the most nutritious—half as many as spinach. And when it comes to taste, it ranks worst: 20% say it tastes the worst, and it’s the most disliked salad base.
Mustard Greens Also Miss the Mark
Kale isn’t alone in the dislike column. Mustard greens come in second place for worst taste. While they didn’t top any favorite lists, they still beat kale in overall likability.
Smoothie Bases? Many Say ‘None’
One-third of Americans don’t like any of the leafy greens polled as a smoothie base. Spinach leads the shortlist, with just over 10% saying they prefer it in their drinks. Kale? Only 11% picked it as the worst smoothie green.
Romaine and Spring Mix Land in the Middle
Romaine and spring mix are middle-of-the-road favorites. Both scored decently in taste—13% and 10%, respectively—but not in nutrition. Only a small percentage of Americans think they’re the healthiest options.
