Americans know which foods are bad for their health—but that doesn’t mean they’re giving them up. A YouGov survey looked into how people view unhealthy foods, why they keep eating them, and how often they actually check nutrition labels. From the irresistible pull of flavor to the convenience of fast food, here’s what really drives those guilty-pleasure cravings.
Sugar Tops the Unhealthy Food List
A whopping 79% of Americans say sugary foods are unhealthy. Close behind are foods high in saturated or trans fats (74%), and those with empty calories (71%). Deep-fried items, fast food, and salty snacks round out the top offenders. Women are more likely than men to label these items unhealthy.
Taste Is the Main Reason We Give In
Flavor is king when it comes to temptation. Sixty-five percent of Americans say they eat chips for the taste. That’s followed by candy (58%), soda (49%), and fast food (39%). Many are also hooked on the variety of flavors, especially in chips and candy.
Convenience Keeps Fast Food on the Menu
Fast food wins points for speed. Forty-five percent of people say its availability keeps them coming back, while 31% say it’s just easier to prepare. Cost plays a smaller role—only 18% choose fast food because it’s cheaper.
Most People Don’t Always Check Labels
Only 15% of Americans say they always read nutrition labels. But 57% say they check at least some of the time. That casual glance can still impact buying habits—71% say they’ve put something back after reading the label in the past 90 days.
Food Labels Actually Change Minds
Even if label reading isn’t a habit for everyone, it still matters. Nearly 3 in 4 Americans have reconsidered a food or drink after reading its nutrition info. That means awareness is making at least some difference at the checkout line.
Most Americans Want to Protect Kids From Ads
Fifty-three percent of Americans say unhealthy food ads targeting children should be banned. Younger adults support this even more—57% of 18–29-year-olds are in favor. Still, not everyone agrees. Thirty-eight percent of people say these ads should be allowed.
Older Adults Are Less Likely to Support a Ban
Among adults 65 and older, only 45% support banning junk food ads for kids. That’s noticeably lower than younger generations. The generational gap highlights changing views on how much influence food marketing should have—especially on young minds.
