**What Your Ice Cream Eating Style Reveals About You: The Surprising Insights Behind Britain’s Favourite Treat**
Ice cream stands as a beloved indulgence in the UK, but beyond its sweet flavour and creamy texture, it might offer surprising clues about our personalities. Recent insights from psychologists, coupled with a new survey commissioned by ice cream brand Nuii, delve into the peculiar idea that the way we eat our ice cream could be a window into our character.
According to leading behavioural psychologist Jo Hemmings, there is more to our preferred ice cream-eating methods than meets the eye. Whether you opt for a hearty bite, a leisurely lick, or a careful nibble, each style is thought to signal unique traits about how you approach life and decision-making.
The survey, which polled 2,000 British adults known for their passion for frozen treats, uncovered some fascinating patterns. Most respondents confessed to being ‘lickers’, slow and methodical in their enjoyment, while nearly 40 percent went straight in for a bite. The data triggered fresh debate across social media, especially after Nuii’s Brand Ambassador, actor Jason Momoa, was filmed devouring his ice cream with a decisive chomp – a move that proved unexpectedly divisive online.
Curious to find out more, the researchers took their questions to the streets, seeking to unearth wider public attitudes. Though the findings may appear light-hearted, experts like Hemmings suggest they point towards fundamental elements of our psychological makeup.
Biters—those who can’t resist taking an ambitious chunk—are characterised as bold and somewhat impulsive, with the survey indicating that others often see them as confident and even a bit fearless. Jo Hemmings explains that these individuals usually seek instant rewards and adrenaline hits. They may come from bigger families, where snapping up what’s on offer quickly was part of everyday life – a habit that has continued into adulthood.
Contrasting with the biters, ‘lickers’ take their time enjoying each mouthful. The research found that these individuals tend to be more patient, reflective, and perhaps a touch romantic. Savouring their treat, they are likely comfort-seekers who prefer predictability and the joy of stretching out pleasure. “Lickers thrive on delayed gratification and enjoy the anticipation that comes with each moment of enjoyment,” Hemmings elaborates.
For those who favour small, gentle nibbles, the analysis reveals a picture of caution and attentiveness. These ‘nibblers’ are praised for their emotional self-control and thoughtfulness, but their focus on the minutiae might make them come across as slightly anxious or controlling. The fondness for paying attention to every sensory detail speaks to their desire for stability and reassurance.
Beyond the mechanics of how people eat their ice cream, the study also looked into eating speeds. A notable third of participants described themselves as fast eaters, often finishing their ice cream in record time. Hemmings describes such individuals as energetic and enthusiastic, yet sometimes impatient. Fast eaters are typically chasing the rush of dopamine that sweet treats can bring and may feel restless if that reward is delayed.
On the opposite end, slow eaters immerse themselves in the multi-sensory experience, appreciating every flavour and texture and seldom in a hurry to finish. According to Hemmings, “The slow-savourer is highly intentional and patient. They focus on the full sensory journey, making eating ice cream a deliberate act of comfort and nostalgia.”
Nuii’s Henry Craven finds these theories resonate with how fans celebrate ice cream: “Whether you bite, lick or nibble, enjoyment is at the heart of it all. Ice cream evokes playfulness and imagination and isn’t limited just to summer afternoons – for many, it’s a year-round source of happiness.”
While the idea that your ice cream habits might reveal the deepest layers of your personality may seem a little whimsical, the research offers a reminder of the small rituals that contribute to our sense of pleasure and identity. For some, the way they approach their favourite scoop might just reflect the way they approach life itself.
As the research continues to inspire lively conversation, one thing is certain: however you choose to enjoy your ice cream, there’s no wrong way to experience one of Britain’s timeless joys. Whether you’re a bold biter, a patient licker or a thoughtful nibbler, your ice cream routine is yours to savour.