This summer’s sporting calendar has delivered plenty of unforgettable moments, but it’s the breaks in play that have unexpectedly become one of the biggest talking points.
Whether it’s hydration breaks, half-time or extended stoppages, new research from Dolmio suggests many fans aren’t staying glued to the television. Instead, they’re using those precious minutes to grab food, drinks and snacks—while wishing they had enough time to prepare something more satisfying.
According to the new nationwide survey, Britain’s sports fans are making every minute count, even if it means missing the commentary.
Half of Brits Switch Off During Sports Breaks
Dolmio’s research found that 50% of Brits watch very little—or none—of sports breaks, viewing them as dead time rather than part of the match experience.
Opinions remain divided:
- 27% see breaks as a necessary interruption.
- 22% say they’re mildly annoying but understandable.
- 24% find them frustrating.
- 10% believe they ruin the viewing experience altogether.
Rather than sitting through stoppages, fans are making the most of the downtime in other ways.
Snacks Win Over Hot Meals
The survey highlights that food is one of the biggest priorities during a pause in play.
Among those surveyed:
- 52% head off to grab a drink.
- 46% reach straight for snacks.
- 39% make a dash to the kitchen.
- 21% admit they feel hungry during the break.
Convenience is clearly king. Around 34% opt for quick breakfast foods such as toast or cereal, while 23% take the opportunity to order a takeaway.
Despite this, only 6% actually manage to prepare a hot meal before the action resumes.
Interestingly, there’s clear demand for something more substantial, with 42% saying they would cook a hot meal during a short sports break if it were possible.
Dolmio Wants Fans to Rethink Match-Day Meals
Capitalising on this trend, Dolmio has positioned its microwave-ready meal range as an alternative to crisps and quick snacks.
The brand’s ready meals—including Dolmio Active, Dolmio Feasts and Dolmio Classics—are designed to be heated in around two minutes, allowing fans to prepare a hot meal before play restarts. The range includes protein-focused options alongside classic pasta dishes and creamy comfort food favourites.
Dolmio Active is currently available exclusively in Tesco stores, while Dolmio Feasts and Dolmio Classics are available nationwide.
Dolmio: “Breaks Are the Perfect Time to Refuel”
Hana Hutchinson, European Brand Director for Mars Food & Nutrition Europe, said sports breaks can be seen as an opportunity rather than an inconvenience.
“When watching sports, breaks in the game can lose momentum in play and frustration amongst fans. But with it comes the chance to refuel even in the shortest of times. We designed our Dolmio cupboard ready meals to be convenient, easy and tasty meals for those looking to fit it into their busy lifestyles.”
She added that the meals are intended to help people enjoy a proper hot meal at home, while watching sport or even when they’re on the move.
The research reflects changing viewing habits, with fans increasingly treating breaks in live sport as an opportunity to multitask rather than remain glued to the screen.
Whether it’s making a cup of tea, checking social media, grabbing snacks or preparing dinner, interruptions in play are becoming valuable moments away from the television.
Find Out More:
- Dolmio Ready Meals: https://www.dolmio.co.uk/ready-meals
- Dolmio UK: https://www.dolmio.co.uk/
