Take-out

Take-out or takeaway (in the UK and Commonwealth countries) is a service provided by restaurants and food stands where customers can order food to be consumed elsewhere. The food is typically prepared and packaged for transport, often in disposable containers. This service is different from food delivery, where the food is delivered to the customer's location.

History

The concept of take-out food can be traced back to antiquity. Street vendors in ancient Rome sold food ready to eat, while in the East, the Chinese have had a long tradition of takeaway food. The British are also known for their love of takeaway food, with fish and chips being a popular choice since the 19th century.

Types of Take-out

There are various types of take-out, including fast food, pizza delivery, and mobile catering. Some restaurants also offer a take-out option in addition to their regular dining service.

Fast Food

Fast food is a type of take-out that is prepared and served very quickly. It is typically less nutritionally valuable compared to other foods and dishes. While any meal with low preparation time can be considered fast food, typically the term refers to food sold in a restaurant or store with preheated or precooked ingredients.

Pizza Delivery

Pizza delivery is a service in which a pizzeria delivers a pizza to a customer's location. This is often done by a delivery person who travels by car, a form of transport that can keep the pizza hot during the journey.

Mobile Catering

Mobile catering is the business of selling prepared food from some sort of vehicle, either a truck or van in most cases. It is a common feature of urban areas, and can also be found at outdoor events such as concerts and fairs.

Health Concerns

There are health concerns associated with the consumption of take-out food, particularly fast food, due to its high fat and salt content. Many fast food chains have added healthier options to their menus in recent years, in response to public concern over obesity and other health issues.

See Also

• Food delivery
• Drive-through
• Online food ordering