Quotation:
“Aroma and memory are somehow inextricably linked. A smell can suddenly evoke a long-forgotten moment. The flavors of childhood foods seem to leave an indelible mark, and adults often return to them, without always knowing why. These ‘comfort foods’ become a source of pleasure and reassurance, a fact that fast food chains work hard to promote. Childhood memories of Happy Meals can translate into frequent adult visits to McDonald’s, like those of the chain’s ‘heavy users,’ the customers who eat there four or five times a week.”[1]
Talking Point:
It’s surprising how much fast food chains pick up on the subtle factors that shape human behavior, such as smells and childhood memory. Many of their commercials and advertising are even modified to appeal to kids.
Connection:
I remember talking about favorite foods with a group of kids back when I was younger. I always said I loved spaghetti because I loved the smell of the house when my mom made Italian food. Many of my friends or even younger kids would often say hamburgers because they ate at fast food restaurants a lot.
[1] Schlosser, Eric; Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal; pg. 123
