A study issued by Stanford and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation found that items placed in a McDonald’s wrapper tasted better to young children. In the study, children were presented with multiple food items such as carrots, milk, and apples in McDonald’s wrappers. The children were then given the same food items in unmarked packaging. The children were then asked to identify which items tasted better. The Golden Arches always won.
In the business of marketing, we know that packaging can often make or break a product. An interesting question to ask ourselves also is, does size matter?
In an effort to cash in on the millions trying to lose weight many companies have joined the 100 calorie movement and have transformed their tasty, sugary, salty, and high-fat snacks into 100 calorie bite sized mini packs. Even Burger King has joined the club by announcing they will be introducing a line of 100 calorie fries & ketchup packets. What will they think of next? 100 calorie hamburgers? Do these items taste as good as their larger counterparts?
At a recent Weight Watchers meeting more than half the room admitted to eating more than one of the 100 calorie packages. When asked why, many of the members admitted that they missed the larger cookies or crackers and felt compelled to eat more. Many also said that they felt more satisfied with the regular sized snacks.
This made me think, why then don’t food manufacturers just package the regular sized portions? This will not only satisfy our sensory needs, but also instruct the public on what the correct portions are.
Just some food for thought.