Subway vs. McDonalds: Which do you choose?

August 31st, 2007

Big Mac or a BMT?  When given a choice between the two, which would you pick for a ’healthy’ choice?  A new study in the October edition of the Journal of Consumer Research claims that people tend to underestimate the calories in items thought as relatively healthy choices.  Maybe it’s because they are sneaking in extra calories like cookies, chips and sodas because of the leeway in their calorie count with the “healthier” entree. 

After a few experiments, the researchers have found a few insights to why those pounds might still creep in even though people are making a conscious effort in choosing the “better” option.  The two researchers asked the group to estimate the calorie count for a sandwich, side and drink from each restaurant.  Surprisingly, the meals had the same number of calories, however, the group underestimated the Subway meal by 121 calories (21%).  Which would you have chosen?

When given a free coupon for a Big Mac or an Italian BMT sandwich, where would you go?  Would you choose a cookie or chips along with it?  According to the study, more people chose high calorie side items when ordering the BMT.  This can possibly account to a underestimation in the 900 calorie BMT subway sandwich.  (The study was not meant to slam or promote either restaurant, but show the underestimation in each menu item.)

The study is not to say never eat at Subway or McDonalds, but be aware of the calories.  The point is not to rely on the ‘assumption’ that one is healthier than the other.  And as we like to say at the Institute, always remember: “Unwise, Better, Best!” 

Click here to read more about each experiment.

Entry Filed under: Healthy Lifestyle Research, Weight Loss, Fitness and Health, Making Choices