Impact of three different plate colours on short-term satiety and energy intake: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND: Plate colour was previously shown to alter the amount of food consumption due to its environmental effect on food intake. However, different studies have indicated that the effect of plate colour cannot be generalized. In light of this finding, the main objective of this study was to determine whether food consumption during an open buffet meal was different when using same-sized white, red or black plates. METHODS: This study was a crossover study conducted with 54 female participants aged 18–30 years with normal BMIs. On experimental days, participants ate a standard breakfast and were then randomly assigned to eat ad libitum lunch (pasta with tomato sauce and soft drinks) using white, red or black plates. Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores on satiety outcomes were measured for all meals. Energy and macronutrient intake during lunch was recorded. RESULTS: The results showed that plate colour exerted a significant effect on food intake during the test days (p = 0.021). The average total energy intake with red (1102.16 ± 47.12 kcal, p = 0.05) and black plates (1113.19 ± 47.12 kcal, p = 0.034) was significantly increased when compared to that with white plates (945.72 ± 47.12 kcal). There were no differences between red and black plates (p = 0.985). Overall, mean VAS scores did not indicate a significant difference between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Plate colour may be a crucial determinant of energy intake.