General food article

Bangers and mash most popular comfort food

Bangers and mash is the most popular comfort food during the credit crunch, according to a survey which claims most Britons are putting on weight because of the recession.

The traditional British dish got 16 per cent of the vote, beating fish and chips into second with 15 per cent and beans on toast into third with 10 per cent.

The survey was commissioned by TV channel Good Food, which quizzed more than 3,000 British adults about their current eating habits compared with last year.

It showed British people eating more during the financial downturn with 77 per cent of consumers saying they have upped their food intake since the recession started.

More than half of those surveyed revealed that they had put on weight in the last six months as they ate comfort food to get through the recession.

Eating habits are also changing with 38 per cent saying they prefer to socialise with friends at home instead of being in a pub (22 per cent) or going to a restaurant (19 per cent).

Richard Kingsbury, head of the Good Food channel, said: “It’s heartening to know that even if people can’t afford to go out they are still having fun with good food and the friends they’ve invited round.

“Food programmes have played a part in giving people the confidence and creativity to have a go at cooking for friends whether it be bangers and mash or Thai green curry.”

The average spend on groceries has increased by £35 compared with last year, with 39 per cent saying they are now more budget-conscious.

Luxury foods such as steak did badly, with 52 per cent deciding not to buy it in the current economic climate.

Chocolate cake, however, did well in the study, featuring in the top five comfort foods with eight per cent of the vote.

Celebrity chef Brian Turner said: “At a time when we are getting less for more when we buy food, comfort deserts such as chocolate cake, fruit crumble and custard and treacle sponge with custard are helping to put a smile back on our faces.

“It’s feel-good food for Britain at its best.”

Most popular comfort food

Bangers and mash (16%)

Fish and chips (15%)

Baked beans on toast (10%)

Chocolate cake (8%)

At Hawksby & Dickens – The Business Caterer, we understand the importance of a balanced diet. Meeting catering in the past has been limited in variety and nutritional value. We have worked hard to change this and are proud to unveil our Healthy options range of sandwiches. We have blended a selection of products to meet strict nutritional criteria yet maintain the same high standards in quality. Complement the sandwiches with a fresh fruit platter and crudités, and you have a tasty meal that is bursting with ‘goodness’.

For more information on our Manchester catering, why not call us today on 0844 561 6846 or visit us at www.hawksby.co.uk