Legalization of Marijuana Boosts Fast Food Visits

In American states where marijuana has been legalized, the number of visitors to fast food restaurants has increased. This is according to research conducted by Green Market Report and Consumer Research Around Cannabis, as reported by Forbes.

McDonald’s has become the most popular destination for marijuana consumers—43 percent of those who used marijuana visited a McDonald’s restaurant. Taco Bell came in second place (18 percent), while Wendy’s secured third place (17.8 percent).

The online survey included 27,000 participants.

Why Marijuana Increases Appetite

Increased appetite is a well-known side effect of marijuana use, often referred to in slang as “the munchies.” This happens because the main ingredient in marijuana, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), affects the brain, making it think it’s being deprived of food. Studies have shown that THC increases the sensitivity of taste receptors—marijuana users not only feel hungrier, but food also tastes much better to them.

Medical Uses of Marijuana’s Side Effects

American doctors use this side effect to treat people suffering from severe weight loss. Marijuana is also prescribed as an auxiliary remedy to relieve nausea during chemotherapy and to treat certain eye diseases.

McDonald’s Marketing to Marijuana Consumers

On June 5, McDonald’s placed an ad for its Bueno green chile burrito near the city of Raton, on the border between New Mexico and Colorado. The billboard read: “Usually, when you roll something this good, it’s illegal.”