One in five Dutch people tune into television during breakfast. Other popular activities include 'doing nothing' (17.8%), reading the newspaper (13.4%), and chatting with friends, family, or colleagues (13.8%). Most enjoy these moments at the kitchen table or on the couch, according to Campina's in-depth research on Dutch breakfast habits.
The appeal of dairy at breakfast has grown over the past five years, while bread and crackers—though still the top choices—have seen a slight decline in popularity. When asked about ultimate guilty pleasure breakfasts, respondents highlighted indulgent options like croquette or smoked sausage sandwiches, champagne, donuts, and even sushi.
Here are the six most striking findings from the research:
1. One in five Dutch people watches television during breakfast.
2. Dairy appears more often at breakfast, while bread and crackers are eaten less frequently.
3. A quarter of Dutch people still skip breakfast.
4. Active Dutch prefer breakfast before exercise.
5. A majority eat breakfast out of habit.
6. Most Dutch spend no more than five minutes preparing breakfast.
A quarter of respondents skip breakfast altogether. On weekdays, it's primarily a habit (60.8%) and an energy boost (41.2%). Weekends bring a more leisurely approach, with many savoring the meal. Over half exercise weekly and typically eat breakfast beforehand. Speed is key: nearly half prepare breakfast in five minutes or less, even on weekends where more than a quarter take just six to ten minutes.
