In the US, the Food and Drug Administration's suggested caloric intake per day is set at 2,000 calories. While a suggested caloric intake is just an estimate that differs depending on a person's size, amount of physical activity, and overall health, among other things, the 2,000 calorie mark is a reasonable one for many people.
To visualize just what 2,000 calories looks like, Business Insider created a photoseries that shows approximately what and how much food makes up that suggested caloric intake at a few of the biggest fast food chains in the world.
At some chains, the 2,000 calorie mark is somewhat reasonable. At Subway, for example, it's a foot-long sub, a six-inch flatbread, and an oatmeal cookie -- which could make up a person's lunch and dinner, at least. However, 2,000 calories is a surprisingly small amount of food at other chains in the series.
Fast Food Calorie Photography
This Series Shows the Suggested Caloric Intake at Major Food Chains
Trend Themes
1. Visualizing Caloric Intake - Opportunities exist to create technology and apps that help people better understand their caloric intake by providing interactive visuals showcasing caloric content of meals at popular fast-food chains.
2. Healthy Fast Food Alternatives - Opportunities exist for companies to offer healthier and lower-calorie fast food meal options, catering to health-conscious consumers who want to indulge without sacrificing nutrition.
3. Nutrition Education - Opportunities exist for education programs that encourage better nutrition choices in fast food chains, providing customers with a better understanding of their recommended daily calorie intake and the impact of certain food choices on overall health.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food Industry - Fast-food chains can capitalize on the trend by introducing healthier menu options that cater to consumers who are health conscious but still crave fast food.
2. Tech Industry - Technology companies can offer solutions such as apps and interactive visual technology that help consumers understand the caloric content of the fast food they consume.
3. Education Industry - Educational programs that focus on food nutrition and help people understand the proper caloric intake for their body size, activity level and overall health can benefit from the trend.