Fast food consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, strokes, and heart-related symptoms due to excessive fat intake resulting in high cholesterol (Bose D, N. D). Additionally, affordability may encourage customers to consume large quantities of fast food. Research has also shown a connection between proximity to fast food establishments and an increased risk of obesity (Brown J, 2009). Furthermore, fast food often lacks the pleasing taste commonly found in homemade cooked meals.
Home cooked food is generally tastier because it has a controlled amount of additives. On the other hand, fast food can taste different, usually being too sweet or too savory. This is because there is an excess of flavorings like salt, pepper, sugar, oil, and other artificial additives used in the fast food making process (Halverson M. N, 2009). Consuming excessive artificial flavorings can also result in various health problems due to the lack of moderation in additive consumption by customers.
Brown J (2009) states that fast food has a drawback in reducing social interaction. Its affordability leads people to prefer eating alone instead of with others, resulting in less family gathering time and weaker family bonds (Bose D, N. D). Additionally, children nowadays opt to eat with friends of their age at fast food establishments, further diminishing family time. Also, Brown J (2009) mentions that the quality of food in fast food restaurants is often low due to workers lacking professional chef training. Halverson M. N (2009) adds that since fast food is prepared quickly for each customer, it may not be well-prepared and can sometimes appear unsatisfying. On the other hand, an advantage of fast food is its time-saving aspect. Busy individuals returning home from work or studying do not wish to endure lengthy wait times for their meals.
According to Clark S in 2010, fast food restaurants are accessible and offer convenient options for customers seeking quick and easy meals without extensive travel. Stein N noted in 2011 that this not only saves time on acquiring food but also on its preparation. Moreover, fast food is swiftly prepared, eliminating prolonged waiting for orders. Consequently, this not only economizes kitchen time but also decreases the required duration for kitchen cleaning.
Halverson M. N (2009, November) highlights the second advantage of fast food as the low prices (Bose D, N. D). Fast food restaurants offer customers affordable meal sets, reducing costs. Purchasing fast food also eliminates the need to travel to supermarkets for ingredients, saving on gas and parking fees. Additionally, buying combos at fast food establishments is cheaper than purchasing set meals at traditional restaurants.
According to Brown J (2009), the consumption of excessive amounts of fast food by customers can easily lead to this outcome. On the contrary, Halverson M. N. (2009) argues that one benefit of fast food is the range of choices it provides in terms of taste and culture. Fast food establishments offer options including burgers, pizza, tacos, and more. Furthermore, Clark S. (2010) notes that fast food chains also provide a well-rounded diet consisting of both meat and vegetables. In summary, despite these advantages, the drawbacks of fast food surpass its benefits.
While fast food offers convenience, affordability, and a range of options, it can lead to negative effects like promoting excessive eating and causing health issues. Furthermore, fast food may not meet customers’ expectations regarding quality and taste, leaving it susceptible to criticism. On the other hand, preparing meals at home ensures a healthier choice by utilizing fresh ingredients like meat and vegetables in moderate quantities with minimal seasoning. This encourages the consumption of nourishing meals rather than greasy takeout.
