Walking around New York City's West Village yesterday, I came across one of local smoothie chain Juice Generation's branches.The establishment looked pristine, and many of the offerings sounded delicious.
I walked in, figuring a fruit-based beverage would hit the spot on a hot August day.
Except for one problem. Their smoothies are available in just one size -- 24 ounces.
I was in the mood for a light, refreshing drink -- 12 ounces would have been perfect.
Why is the "standard" size equivalent to three cups' worth? Whatever happened to having a choice? Why can't I opt for a small, medium, or large?
As a result, a peanut butter and banana smoothie (which would clock in at a reasonable 260 calories for a 12 oz serving) is only available in a much heftier 520 calorie package.
We all know too well (mainly from Brian Wansink's research) that when food -- or beverages, in this scenario -- is in front of us, we finish it, regardless of how large the portion is or how hungry we truly are.
Ordering a 24 ounce and throwing half of it away was out of the question, and since I wasn't planning on being home for another 2 hours, there was no chance of saving the rest in the fridge for the next morning.
It's a real shame, too, because in many ways this place is a cut above the rest -- their smoothies are syrup and puree free, as much of the fruit as possible comes from local farms, and they are well-known for always passing food safety and health inspection checks with flying colors.
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