Three-quarters of Irish people who eat out regularly choose the healthy
option of fruit, vegetables or salad, according to a survey conducted by the Irish Heart Foundation (IHF).
The survey was commissioned by the IHF to identify consumer attitudes as part of the Happy Heart Eat Outcampaign, which aims to encourage chefs to promote healthy low-fat options on menus in restaurants, hotels, pubs and workplace canteens.
Of those surveyed, 76 per cent regularly select dishes with fruit, vegetables or salad included or offered as a side order and of those who eat dessert, 40 per cent choose fruit-based desserts.
The survey, carried out by the Irish Universities Nutrition Alliance also found that of the 200 consumers questioned 63 per cent want sauces and dressings served on the side so that they could control the amount of fat they eat.
The survey showed 24 per cent said health was the main factor in choosing a particular dish, with almost 10 per cent asking for a low fat dish. Women were more likely to choose the low fat option (16 per cent of women compared to 3 per cent of men). In addition women (18 per cent) are more likely to ask for a low fat or vegetarian dish, whereas only 8 per cent of men are likely to make such a request.
Ms Maureen Mulvihill, the health promotion officer for the foundation, said the findings were "particularly positive" given that so many of those questioned expressed a preference for healthy food options when eating out. She said the survey shows that "the healthy food message is being heard".
However, Ms Mulvihill said she was concerned by the fact that two in three men are overweight or obese, compared to one in two women.
"Overweight and obesity increase your chances of getting coronary heart disease, a disease which kills about 1,500 people, mostly men, before the age of 65 in Ireland today. Choosing low fat dishes with lots of fruit and vegetables, both at home and when eating out can help reduce overweight and risk of heart disease," she said.