Craving a quick bite? You’re not alone. According to new data from the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, nearly one in three U.S. adults eats fast food every day. For younger adults, ages 20 to 39, fast food contributes more than 15% of daily calories, while those over 60 average just 6%.
This national appetite for speed and convenience comes with nutritional baggage. The report found that fast food is often high in calories, sugar, fat, and sodium, but low in fiber, iron, whole grains, and other essential nutrients. On average, fast food made up 11.7% of adults’ daily calories between 2021 and 2023—a drop from 14.1% nearly a decade ago, but still substantial.
Kids aren’t immune either. Approximately 30% of children aged 2 to 19 consume fast food on any given day, with teens accounting for the highest percentage: 14.6% of their daily calories come from fast food, compared to 8.5% for younger children.
Education levels showed some variation—adults with college degrees or just high school diplomas consumed less fast food than those with some college education but no degree. But gender didn’t make a difference: men and women consumed similar amounts.
Still, the fast-food landscape is evolving. Health-conscious consumers are pushing chains to offer better-for-you options, and many now feature salads, wraps, grilled proteins, or customizable bowls. A Healthline review notes that while 85% of fast-food menu items remain ultra-processed, nearly every major chain offers meals that can be modified for health.
Experts say the key is balance, not deprivation. “It’s about working with your body, not against it,” says nutritionist Chloë Ward. So yes—you can hit the drive-thru and still support your health goals… as long as you don’t make it a daily habit.
