Fast food frenzy
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February 16, 2010 • Ashley Brenton, Guest Contributor
Filed under 2009-2010
Why is it that fast food has taken over the life of the average American? As the population increases, fast food industries grow just as fast, if not faster. As a result, obesity rates have sky-rocketed during these past few decades. Home-cooked meals and family bonding seems to no longer be a part of most Americans’ every day routine.
One fourth of all adults eat some sort of fast food every day. That is no way to be a role model to the younger generation. According to an American School Children survey, 96% of children knew who Ronald McDonald was. The only other fictional character with a higher degree of recognition was Santa Claus. Shouldn’t that fact right there be a sign that fast food has taken over our lives? In another study, the McDonald golden arches were found to be more recognizable than the Christian cross.
Nowadays, Americans spend more money on fast food than education, personal computers, software, books and music combined. Every street corner seems to have some sort of fast food location, no matter how small the town. In Colorado Springs alone, there are 20 Pizza Huts and 21 McDonalds. It’s been said that the fast food industry grows faster than cities’ populations.
Teenagers have grown up watching TV commercials showing fast food joints as “the in thing.” Fast food restaurants are open later; a prime example would be that of Taco Bell. This has introduced the idea of a “fourth meal.” Since teenagers can stay as long as they want, fast food joints have become the new hangout for many. The food is more affordable, and since most teens are working for minimum wage, they prefer the ease of fast food. It’s seen as a quick and cheap meal option.
Fast food has replaced family dinner bonding time. Home-cooked meals are now a thing of the past.
