• May 29, 2007

NPD's 21st annual "Eating Patterns in America" report shows that outdoor grill usage in America is at an all-time high; nearly double what it was 20 years ago.

In 1985, 17% of households used a grill at dinner at least once during an average two-week period throughout the year; in 2006, it was 32%.

Summer remains the most popular season for grilling, with about 50% of households using their grills. Although summer grilling has remained steady over the last 10 years, grilling throughout the year has grown. Fall in particular has grown by 6% over the past decade in terms of household grill usage. Spring has grown by 5%; winter has grown by 4%.

Undoubtedly, the reason for off-season increases in usage is due to the increase in grill ownership. According to NPD's Kitchen Audit data, the majority of consumers now own an outdoor gas grill over a charcoal grill.

Harry Balzer, VP/The NPD Group, says, "It's no surprise that Mom is kicking Dad outdoors during the fall and winter months to cook. It's one of the few times that he is willing to help out and give her a break."

According to NPD, 35% of women say they "never" prepare meals on the grill, while 40% of men say they "always" prepare meals on the grill.