Fast food has become global and a way of life in many countries. And yes, we’ve got the data to prove it. Based on the latest stats from World Population Review, here are the top 10 countries reaching for fast food more than anyone else. We bet you know who’s on the top spot!
10. Norway
While international chains like Burger King and McDonald’s are present in the country, Norwegians have a strong preference for local fast food, especially kebabs, burgers, and pølse i lompe (a hot dog wrapped in a flat potato bread). It’s also worth noting that fast food in Norway is expensive. A Big Mac here costs $7-$8—one of the highest in the world.
9. China
China ranks ninth for fast food consumption and it can be attributed to the localization of menus from western chains like McDonald’s, KFC, and Pizza Hut. For instance, McDonald’s has offered bubble tea, rice-based meals, and taro pies in the country. Rapid expansions of other brands is also noticeable, but right now, KFC is king. The brand has over 9,000 locations in China—way more than the number of KFC locations in the US.
8. Greece
In Greece, fast food consumption is high not because of international chains, but due to the country’s rich, casual street food culture. While global chains exist, much of Greece’s fast food consumption is linked to local street food options like gyros and souvlaki. Greeks also tend to favor local businesses, leading to the popularity of Greek fast food chains like Goody’s.
7. South Korea
South Korea has one of the liveliest food cultures on this list. The western chains in this country are also popular but localized, serving menu items like shrimp burgers, kimchi wraps, and bulgogi burgers. South Korea itself has a booming fast food scene. Tteokbokki chains and ramen shops are everywhere, and of course, the Korean fried chicken is wildly popular. Many fast food outlets also stay open late to serve shift workers and nightlife-goers.
6. Mexico
Affordability matters in Mexico and fast food ticks the box. It’s cheaper than eating at sit-down restaurants or cooking at home, plus it’s a practical choice for over 80% of Mexicans living in urban areas. The country also has a strong street food culture. Think tacos, tortas, quesadillas, and tamales being everywhere. Along with local chains, international brands like McDonald’s, Domino’s, and Burger King exist, and they have thousands of locations across the country.
5. Austria
Austria ranks fifth in global fast food consumption, per World Population Review. Fast food is popular among youth, especially in cities where fast food chains are close by. McDonald’s is the top international fast food brand in Austria, serving items like McSchnitzel, McRib, and chili cheese snacks. Bread is also taken seriously in this country, and it’s a central part of breakfast and dinner.
4. Sweden
Swedes lover their burgers so much, and we’re not just talking about the ones from Golden Arches. Local chains like Max Burgers also have a strong presence in the country and are known for offering sustainable and climate-labeled menus. Eating fast food in Sweden is also often a social event; people love to hang out at a fast food places with friends after school or on weekends.
3. France
Many of us love French dining and traditional French cuisine, but it’s also undeniable how big fast food is in this European country. France has been rated the third highest consumer of fast food in the world, with international chains like Burger King, KFC, and McDonald’s establishing a strong presence in the country. A lot of French people also love the “fast casual” style that comes with better ingredients. Think salads, quiche, and artisan sandwiches.
2. United Kingdom
Latest figures from Cancer Research UK revealed that 22 million fast food meals and takeaway meals are eaten weekly by adults in the UK. That roughly translates to eating fast food two to three times a week, which is highly likely in urbanized areas like London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Fried chicken is a national favorite, and the UK has thousands of fried chicken shops in urban areas. The UK is also one of KFC’s largest international markets.
1. United States
Taking the number one spot, unsurprisingly, is the US. Fast food was invented here, with White Castle, McDonald’s, and KFC paving the way for quick, affordable meals. In the US, fast lifestyles = fast food. It’s just easier to grab meals from drive-thrus or food courts than to cook. Sadly, the large fast food consumption also reflects in the rising obesity rates in the US.