Fast food offered in road-side service stations can be as dangerous to motorists as fast driving, the RAC breakdown service has warned.

Its study of eating patterns amongst 1,000 road users combined with on-the-ground interviews at motorway service stations revealed that two in three admit to eating less healthily on long journeys and 12% felt lethargic after eating at service stations.

Foods high in fat, such as fast food, are the number one choice for 41% of motorists. These meals can make motorists feel dizzy and sick as the food passes quickly through them, the RAC warned.

Nearly three quarters of the 1,000 drivers surveyed said when it came to eating on long journeys, convenience took priority over healthier options.

The majority blame lack of choice (61%) and expense (66%) as the key barriers to healthy eating. Yet research by the RAC showed that more than half of motorway service stations featured a salad bar.

RAC patrolman Steve England said: "Food is like fuel for the body, and just as a car can't run properly on the wrong type, the same rule applies to motorists.

"It can be hard for people who are on the road a great deal to eat healthily all the time, but from personal experience I know what a difference the right choice can make."

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By Daniel Thomas

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