Fastfood

Fastfood

Fast food is a type of mass-produced food designed for commercial resale and with a strong priority placed on "speed of service" versus other relevant factors involved in culinary science. Fast food was originally created as a commercial strategy to accommodate the larger numbers of busy commuters, travelers and wage workers who often did not have the time to sit down at a public house or diner and wait for their meal.

History

The concept of ready-cooked food for sale is closely connected with urban development. In Ancient Rome, cities had street stands that sold bread soaked in wine, and in the Middle Ages, vendors sold pies, pasties and flans which were essentially early forms of fast food.

Characteristics

Fast food outlets are take-away or take-out providers, often with a "drive-thru" service which allows customers to order and pick up food from their cars. Nearly from its inception, fast food has been designed to be eaten "on the go" and often does not require traditional cutlery and is eaten as a finger food.

Health effects

A study done by researchers from the University of Michigan revealed that "eating fast food is linked to a greater risk of suffering from depression." The same study also found that those who eat fast food tend to eat more overall calories, more saturated fat, more sugar-sweetened beverages, fewer fruits, fewer vegetables, and less fiber.

See also

• Junk food
• Convenience food
• Street food

External links

• Official website