Dynamic Food Decision (In)Consistency: Evidence from the Field

Consistent food decisions are crucial for the effectiveness of individual low-calorie diet plans and public health policy initiatives. Yet, there is limited knowledge about the consistency of food choices in dynamic decision-making contexts. We conduct an incentivized food choice experiment in a field setting. Around 77% of food decisions are dynamically consistent, and most inconsistencies occur in choice switches from high- to low-calorie meal options. Our results bear good news for policymakers, as food decisions are moderately consistent, and desired preference shifts can be sustained over time. However, shifting food preferences poses a significant challenge to health policies, as information and behavioral nudges do not influence food preferences and their consistency.