Environmental influences
Many environmental cues influence food choice and intake, although consumers may not be aware of their effects (see mindless eating).[6] Examples of environmental influences include portion size, serving aids, food variety, and ambient characteristics (discussed below).
Portion size
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Portion sizes in the United States have increased markedly in the past several decades.[7] For example, from 1977 to 1996, portion sizes increased by 60 percent for salty snacks and 52 percent for soft drinks.[7] Importantly, larger product portion sizes and larger servings in restaurants and kitchens consistently increase food intake.[8] Larger portion sizes may even cause people to eat more of foods that are ostensibly distasteful; in one study individuals ate significantly more stale, two-week-old popcorn when it was served in a large versus a medium-sized container.[9]