Britons 'love fast food more than Americans'

America's reputation as the home of fast food is under threat from the British, who are more addicted to burgers, chips and pizza than any other nation in the world.

Almost half of all Britons would be unable to give up fast food

Despite fears over an obesity epidemic, a survey has found that Britain's relationship with junk food has become even stronger than that enjoyed by the US, traditionally known for its devotion to all things deep fried.

A poll of 9,000 people in 13 nations found almost half of British respondents would be unable to give up fast food.

Some 45 per cent of those surveyed in the UK agreed with the statement "I like the taste of fast food too much to give it up", while 44 per cent of Americans said they would be unable to shun burgers, pizzas and chicken wings.

The research, carried out by the BBC, found that attitudes to food and weight vary wildly around the world.

It revealed while most French people get on the scales every day, Singaporeans are the least likely to weigh themselves.

Saudi Arabians and those from the United Arab Emirates were among the top consumers of low-fat food products, meal replacements and food supplements.

They were also the most interested in weight-loss, gym memberships and home exercise equipment.

Few of the respondents blamed their government for rising levels of obesity, and blamed the variety of unhealthy food available on the shelves.