Correspondence

Who Wants a Healthful Breakfast?

N Engl J Med 1994; 330:1162April 21, 1994

Article

To the Editor:

Despite recommendations to the contrary, many Americans continue to select a diet that is high in cholesterol and saturated fat. The fixed choices presented to airline travelers may provide a crude but informative measure of dietary preferences. On one early-morning flight, the choice consisted of a “healthy” breakfast (Kellogg's Special K, skim milk, a whole-grain muffin, and a banana) or a standard breakfast (a cheese omelet and sausage). According to the managing director of the food and beverage services for American Airlines, 60 percent of first-class passengers and 70 percent of coach passengers select an omelet over cereal. “Leisure” travelers (those not traveling on business) tend to prefer omelets.

Although the food choices of travelers may not be typical of their customary diet, their selections may offer some insight into current eating habits. If our goal is to encourage a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet, these data suggest that we have a long way to go.

Robert S. Sandler, M.D., M.P.H.
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7080