Britons eat 46 takeaway dishes each year
The average Briton consumes 46 takeaway dishes each year, including curries, Chinese and pizzas, new research suggests.A survey by Benenden Healthcare Society found that most takeaways are consumed after a night out.
Overall, its poll revealed that a typical Brit will eat 375 burgers, 368 pizzas, 322 Chinese dishes, 312 portions of fish and chips, 188 kebabs and 92 hot dogs during their lifetime.
Lawrence Christensen, head of communications at Benenden Healthcare, warned that eating this many takeaways could be "a fast track to a range of health issues".
"Of course it's an individual's choice to make - but life pressures, lack of knowledge on food content and the late night craving following an alcohol binge can distract us from doing the healthy thing," he added.
When asked why they opted for takeaways instead of devising their own healthy diet plans, 36 per cent of survey respondents admitted that they simply couldn't be bothered to cook.
Three in ten also explained that they regard takeaways as a treat, although a further one in ten conceded that they usually regret their decision afterwards.
Consumers who want their takeaways to be as healthy as possible should ensure they know which dishes to avoid.
For instance, lovers of Chinese food - the most popular type of takeaway in the UK at present - should avoid dishes such as sweet and sour battered pork balls with egg fried rice, and instead opt for items such as steamed fish and plain boiled rice.
