The Fascinating Truth Behind Death Row’s Last Meals

We’ve all been hit with the classic “what would you choose for your last meal?” scenario, but Cornell University researchers took it a step further. They studied 193 actual last meal requests from death row inmates between 2002 and 2006. The findings are eye-opening, and some of the choices are far from what you’d imagine for a final feast. It’s not all steak and lobster—what these inmates chose might surprise you.

Prison meal on a tray.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

Over Two-Thirds Ordered Fried Foods

With its addicting qualities and the source of much of the obesity epidemic in the United States, it’s not hard to understand why someone would opt for a large serving of French fries for their last meal.

Five Times More Requests for Soda Than Milk

To be honest, we’re surprised anyone would bother with milk over soda but maybe it would wash down some brownies or cookies for dessert, which was another popular request among inmates.

The Average Calorie Count was Just Over 2,750 Per Meal

Some requests exceeded 7,000 calories but the average came out around 2,700 calories and with the FDA’s daily recommended intake of 2,000 calories, it’s really not that far off considering it’s a last meal request.

Comfort Foods Were a Popular Choice

We can see this being the case as there’s probably an element of nostalgia in most of these requests.

Burger and fries on a metal tray.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

More Than One-Third Requested Chicken

The split in meats was pretty even but chicken won out in the end. As the most popular meat eaten in the US and one that’s easily made into many comfort dishes, this makes sense.

Almost 25% Asked for a Hamburger

What goes better with those French fries than a greasy burger?

More Than 20% Asked for Steak

We hope it was a good cut like a juicy ribeye or a tender filet mignon.

Less Than 5% Requested Fast Food Chain Meals

McDonald’s, KFC and Wendy’s were apparently the popular choices among those who wanted their last meals from fast food restuarants.

Shake Shack fast food meal.Photo byPhoto credit: Depositphotos.

Requests Are Not Typically Elaborate or High End

Researchers speculated that the plain nature of the requests such as chocolate or vanilla ice cream vs. elaborate flavors from expensive brands might be a reflection of the socio-economic status of many of the inmates.

One Quarter Asked for a Salad as Part of Their Meal

This one baffles us. A salad? Really? We like our greens as much as the next person but as our last meal? Strange.

Brand Name Requests Were Common

Specific brands like Coca-Cola were often requested as part of the meals. Researchers hypothesize this may be a coping mechanism to deal with the stress of the situation by surrounding themselves with something familiar. Or, they could just really hate the taste of Pepsi.