Men tend to stick to familiar lunchtime choices, with 45% avoiding new sandwich fillings compared to 30% of women. In the Netherlands, traditional spreads dominate: cheese sandwiches lead at 71%, followed closely by cold meats at 68%, and sweet options like jam or chocolate spread at 31%. Women more often select healthier fillings, while men overwhelmingly prefer meat, according to a study by meat products manufacturer Stegeman.
Nearly three-quarters of Dutch people (71%) express openness to new lunch options, yet habits prevail—over 60% choose fillings without much thought. Positively, a third seek less predictable choices, and a similar share wants more lunchtime variety. Over half (53%) would invest extra preparation time for a more exciting sandwich.
Despite growing food awareness, four in five Dutch prefer homemade sandwiches over canteen fare. Men stand out as carnivores here, with 73% frequently opting for meat on bread versus 64% of women.
