Business · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysians spend more on eating out than home meals, survey shows
A new household survey has found that Malaysians increasingly dine outside their homes more than they eat at home, a trend linked to poorer dietary quality and rising obesity rates. The spending pattern raises health concerns among researchers tracking non-communicable diseases in the nation.
LSN Malaysia ·
Malaysians are spending more money on meals consumed outside the home compared to food prepared and eaten at home, according to findings from 'The State of Households 2026' report. The research highlights a significant shift in eating habits that has captured the attention of health and social policy observers across the country.
The survey identified a concerning connection between the prevalence of dining out and deteriorating diet quality among the population. Meals eaten away from home tend to be higher in calories, salt, and unhealthy fats while being lower in essential nutrients, contributing to suboptimal nutritional intake across households.
Health experts warn that the pattern is contributing to elevated obesity rates and an increased risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. These conditions have become major public health challenges in Malaysia, placing significant strain on the healthcare system and reducing quality of life for affected individuals.
The findings underscore the need for greater awareness around dietary choices and the importance of home-cooked meals as part of a comprehensive strategy to address rising health risks in Malaysian society.