Container size influences snack food intake independently of portion size

Appetite. 2012 Jun;58(3):814-7. doi: 10.1016/j.appet.2012.01.015. Epub 2012 Jan 28.

Abstract

While larger containers have been found to increase food intake, it is unclear whether this effect is driven by container size, portion size, or their combination, as these variables are usually confounded. The study was advertised as examining the effects of snack food consumption on information processing and participants were served M&M's for free consumption in individual cubicles while watching a TV show. Participants were served (1) a medium portion of M&M's in a small (n=30) or (2) in a large container (n=29), or (3) a large portion in a large container (n=29). The larger container increased intake by 129% (199 kcal) despite holding portion size constant, while controlling for different confounding variables. This research suggests that larger containers stimulate food intake over and above their impact on portion size.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Candy
  • Diet / psychology*
  • Dietary Sucrose / administration & dosage
  • Eating / psychology*
  • Energy Intake*
  • Female
  • Food Packaging*
  • Food Preferences / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Size Perception*
  • Television
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Dietary Sucrose