Tag: Plate size

In the 1970s, the average dinner plate was noticeably smaller than today's standard sizes, typically measuring between 10.5 and 11 inches in diameter. This shift in tableware reflects broader changes in eating habits and consumer trends, raising the question: what size were dinner plates in the 1970s?

According to researchers at Cornell University, larger plates not only cause people to consume larger portions but can also lead them to perceive that they ate less. So, contrary to popular belief, oversized plates actually make food look *smaller*, not more plentiful, an effect crucial to understanding portion control.

According to research, the size of your plate can influence your perception of how much food you're eating, a phenomenon known as the Delboeuf illusion. So, does plate size matter? The surprising answer involves psychological tricks our brains play on us, affecting portion control and eating habits.

The average American dinner plate has grown by nearly 36% since the 1960s, a trend linked to larger portion sizes and increased calorie consumption. Understanding why it is important to match portion sizes to plates is key to countering this "portion distortion" and improving your overall health and wellness.