NEW YORK — Many consider it to be the most important meal of the day, but for others, it’s simply the most delicious. Either way, breakfast is so beloved in the United States that many restaurants offer morning fare all day long, allowing pancake fans to enjoy a double dose before lunch. That said, it should come as no surprise that a recent survey found more than half of Americans believe “second breakfast” should actually be considered an official meal.
According to the survey of 2,000 adults conducted on behalf of Dave’s Killer Bread, the average American admits to having a second go at breakfast at least once a week. But it is not just the taste factor that has people returning for more eggs and toast. Respondents say it also gives them the energy boost they need to make it through the morning.
So it makes perfect sense then that a whopping 62% of adults feel “second breakfast” should be just as conventional as breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
“Americans think we should recognize second breakfast and we agree!” says Cristina Watson, Brand Manager for Dave’s Killer Bread, in a statement. “Three meals a day has become four, five, maybe more depending on someone’s activity. When one breakfast isn’t enough, a second breakfast can help you go the distance.”
While nearly half of those surveyed feel they are judged for eating breakfast foods after 10:25 a.m., 43 percent still admitted to having eggs, waffles, cereal, or other favorites all day long. In fact, about a third of adults (36 percent) do so on a regular basis.
Overall, a third of respondents admit breakfast is their favorite meal, compared to 24% who prefer lunch, and 19% who love dinner most. And when it comes to breakfast foods, eggs top the list. But there is plenty of room for a second breakfast of some of the other favorites, including sausage, toast and pancakes.
Second breakfast is a tradition in some European countries, with special recipes made specifically for this meal. There are plenty of Americans who agree that the unconventional second-helping should be a tradition here, too.
What’s up next? If you missed second breakfast today, there might yet be time to fit in “Elevenses” before lunch.
The survey also revealed the top 10 favorite breakfast foods for Americans:
1. Eggs 58%
2. Sausage 47%
3. Toast 47%
4. Pancakes 44%
5. Bacon 43%
6. Cereal 37%
7. Fresh fruit 35%
8. Oatmeal 34%
9. Home fries 29%
10. Doughnuts 28%
What do you think? Should “second breakfast” be considered an official meal in America?