New research commissioned by MyFitnessPal has flagged up portion control as a factor that could be contributing to obesity.

The nutrition and food tracking app's research found that, when cooking pasta, "as many as 47 percent" of respondents cook two or more handfuls per person (amounting to 150 grams or more), while the NHS recommended portion size is 75 grams per person (about one handful).

Among other findings, the study also identified that 48 per cent of respondents consume an average of 150 grams of uncooked rice or more per serving, while the portion size recommended by the NHS is 75 grams, or one and a half handfuls.

Melissa Jaeger, MyFitnessPal's head of nutrition, said: "These findings highlight a common challenge when it comes to portion control.

"Many people are uncertain when it comes to appropriate serving sizes, and may double or triple recommended amounts, which may lead to higher calorie consumption and could contribute to weight gain overtime."

MyFitnessPal has partnered with the British Obesity Society to provide its community with 1,000 free premium subscriptions to the app.

The research commissioned by MyFitnessPal comprised 2,000 respondents, and was conducted by Perspectus Global in September 2024.