Americans Likely to Continue Cooking At Home As Economy Recovers

The instability of the economic climate has affected Americans in countless ways, including in the kitchen. Early on in the economic downturn, it became apparent that Americans were headed back into the kitchen, cooking more meals at home to cut spending. But as the economy stabilizes, how will Americans' cooking habits re-adjust? Despite early indications that the recession may be easing, a recent national survey* by McIlhenny Company, maker of Tabasco® sauce, reveals that Americans are remaining in the kitchen.

When asked how their eating habits have changed since the recession began,more than half of Americans (56%) say the recession has motivated them to cook more of their meals at home. During a typical week, the majority of Americans (83%) report cooking dinner at home four to seven times a week.

It seems as though cooking at home is less of a trend, and becoming more of a lifestyle change, as 90% of Americans say that they will still cook at home as frequently as they do now once the economy bounces back.

And it's not just baby boomers cooking at home. More so than any other generation,18-24 year- old Americans have been motivated by the recession to cook more at home.Nearly three quarters of 18-24 year-olds (67%) feel this way, compared to roughly half (54%) of Americans ages 25 and older.