To document changes in consumption of food away from home (FAFH) and intakes of selected nutrients by working-age adults between 2005–06 and 2013–14, covering the most recent recessionary period and recovery.

Means were compared across survey rounds relative to 2005–06. Multivariate regression was used to account for changes in demographic characteristics over time.

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2005–2014.

Working-age adults born in 1951–80 (n 12 129) and adolescents and young adults born in 1981–90 (n 5197) who reported day 1 dietary intake data.

Approximately 34 % of energy consumed by working-age adults came from FAFH (14 % from fast foods) in 2005–06. Levels of FAFH consumption were lowest in 2009–10, at 28 and 11 % of energy from FAFH and fast foods, respectively. Percentage of energy from fast foods was 1·9 percentage points higher in 2013–14. Percentage of energy from saturated fat and total mg of cholesterol consumed were lower in 2009–14, while intake of fibre was higher in 2011–14. At-home foods had less saturated fat and more fibre in 2009–14. The greater the percentage of energy from FAFH in the day, the greater the intakes of fat and cholesterol. Percentage of energy from FAFH was highest among those born in 1981–90 and lowest among those born in 1951–60.

FAFH is a significant source of energy, fat and cholesterol among working-age adults. Menu labelling may lower FAFH’s energy content and make it easier for consumers to choose more healthful items.