Commutes are a time for unhealthy eating and ‘food mishaps,’ study finds

Miami — Unhealthy fast food – as well as risky driving while eating behind the wheel – is part of an estimated 122 million Americans’ commutes, results of a recent study suggest.

Researchers from a Florida auto dealer used publicly available health data from County Health Rankings (long commute – driving alone) and conducted a survey of 3,000 drivers.

What they found:

• 68% of the drivers chose their commuting route based on drive-thru restaurants in the area.
• Respondents reported consuming an average of 420 calories during a commute.
• 44% have experienced a “food mishap” that distracted them or nearly caused a crash.

Examples of “food mishaps” included eating hot food that could spill or burn the driver (48%), driving with the knees (32%), balancing a meal on the lap (13%), and using utensils while driving (6%).

The reasons for relying on fast food were to:

• Save time (53%)
• Avoid getting “too hungry” (21%)
• Maintain a habit (14%)
• Cope with stress or boredom (12%)

“Finally, when posed with a hypothetical scenario where their doctor advised them to stop eating while driving for the sake of their health, 43% of respondents stated they would ignore the advice, underscoring the deeply ingrained nature of these unhealthy habits,” states a press release from Potamkin Hyundai, which conducted the study.

The study also reveals the states with the highest percentages of drivers who admit to snacking on junk food during their long commutes. Topping the list were Maryland and Arkansas at 92%. A close third was Mississippi at 91%, followed by Louisiana (88%) and Georgia (84%).