Grazing, Goods and Girth: Determinants and Effects

50 Pages Posted: 25 Aug 2009 Last revised: 31 Mar 2023

See all articles by Daniel S. Hamermesh

Daniel S. Hamermesh

University of Texas at Austin - Department of Economics; National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER); IZA Institute of Labor Economics

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Date Written: August 2009

Abstract

Using the 2006-07 American Time Use Survey and its Eating and Health Module, I show that over half of adult Americans report grazing (secondary eating/drinking) on a typical day, with grazing time almost equaling primary eating/drinking time. An economic model predicts that higher wage rates (price of time) will lead to substitution of grazing for primary eating/drinking, especially by raising the number of grazing incidents relative to meals. This prediction is confirmed in these data. Eating meals more frequently is associated with lower BMI and better self-reported health, as is grazing more frequently. Food purchases are positively related to time spent eating--substitution of goods for time is difficult--but are lower when eating time is spread over more meals.

Suggested Citation

Hamermesh, Daniel S., Grazing, Goods and Girth: Determinants and Effects (August 2009). NBER Working Paper No. w15277, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1459578

Daniel S. Hamermesh (Contact Author)

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