Using a smaller plate did not reduce energy intake at meals

Abstract

In three cross-over experiments, we examined the effect on energy intake of changing the size of the plate used at a meal. On separate days, adults were served the same lunch menu but were given a different-sized plate. In the first study, 45 participants used each of three plate sizes (17, 22, or 26 cm) and served the main course from a large dish. In the second study, 30 participants received an equal amount of food presented on each of the two larger plates. In the third study, 44 participants used each of the three plates and selected from a buffet of five foods matched for energy density. Results showed that plate size had no significant effect on energy intake. The mean differences in intake using the smallest and largest plates in the three studies were 21+/-13 g, 11+/-13 g, and 4+/-18 g, respectively, equivalent to <142 kJ (34 kcal) and not significantly different from zero. Participants in the third study made significantly more trips to the buffet when they were given the smallest plate. These findings show that using a smaller plate did not lead to a reduction in food intake at meals eaten in the laboratory.

Figure 1

Three sizes of plates used in the series of studies of the effect of plate size on energy intake at a meal. Plate A was 17 cm (6.75 in) in diameter, Plate B was 22 cm (8.50 in) in diameter, and Plate C was 26 cm (10.25 in) in diameter. The three plates are shown side by side for comparison, but study participants never saw them displayed together.

Figure 2

Meal energy intake (mean ± SE) in women and men provided with the same food on different days but one of three different plate sizes (Study 1). The main course was provided in a serving dish and participants served it onto the plate as often as they desired. There was no significant effect of plate size on meal energy intake.

Figure 3

Meal energy intake (mean ± SE) in women and men provided with the same food on different days but one of two different plate sizes and a proportionally-sized eating utensil (Study 2). The entire amount of the main course was presented on the plate. There was no significant effect of plate size on meal energy intake.

Figure 4

Meal energy intake (mean ± SE) in women and men provided with the same foods on different days but one of three different plate sizes (Study 3). Five different foods were provided at a personal buffet located 6 m from the dining cubicle. Participants walked to the buffet and served their selections onto the plate as often as they desired. There was no significant effect of plate size on meal energy intake.