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Food choice patterns of long-haul truck drivers driving through Germany, a cross sectional study
This 2019 study evaluated long-haul truck drivers on their food choice patterns since there was limited data on truck drivers driving through Europe. The aim was to compare their dietary choices while working versus while at home. Questionnaires were handed out in 12 different languages at two truck stops in Germany. The survey determined that only 24% of the 404 truck drivers who responded were of normal body weight, while 46% were considered overweight and 30% obese. More than half of the participants were smokers, and 32% reported at least one chronic disease. With regards to eating habits, 37% of the truck drivers ate their meals often or always at truck stops, while 6% never did so. The long-distance drivers most brought fruits (62%) and sausages (50.6%) on their drives. The next most common food items were sandwiches (38.7%), self-cooked meals (37%), sweets (35.4%), and raw vegetables (31%). Compared to in the house, the participants consumed more sausages, energy drinks, soft drinks, and canned foods during their work trips. At home, fresh vegetables, legumes and fish were more often chosen. Food choice patterns and food preparation did not differ significantly across weight categories. But a link was found between food choice patterns and the available food appliances in trucks. To conclude, the working conditions of long-haul truck drivers influence food choices during work and make a healthy lifestyle difficult to follow. [NPID: eating behavior, truck drivers, working conditions, food choice, diet, occupational health, overweight, obesity]
Year: 2019
