The stereotype of police officers loving donuts is deeply ingrained in American culture. But where did this association come from, and is there any truth to it? Here’s a look at the history and realities behind cops and donuts.
The Origins of the Stereotype
The connection between police officers and donuts goes back to the early 20th century when donut shops were among the few establishments open late at night or very early in the morning. Cops working the graveyard shift would stop in for a bite to eat or a cup of coffee to help them through their shift.
In the 1950s and 60s as more Americans bought cars, drive-in donut shops with large parking lots became popular hangouts for officers to take breaks, write reports, and even informal stakeouts. Officers on the beat would also walk their routes and routinely stop at donut shops along the way.
The stereotype was further popularized by TV shows and movies depicting officers hanging out and enjoying donuts while on their breaks. While initially meant as a joke, the association stuck in the public imagination.
Why Cops Love Donuts
There are practical reasons why police officers still frequent donut shops more than other businesses:
- Open long hours – Donut shops are often the only places open 24 hours a day, essential for officers working the night shift.
- Cheap and filling – Donuts provide a quick sugar and energy boost to help officers power through their shifts.
- Secure locations – Modern donut franchises have seating areas and bathrooms for police to write reports, take breaks, and meet up with colleagues.
Beyond convenience, donut shops hold an iconic place in police culture. Officers often develop bonds and a sense of community over coffee and donuts before or after their shifts. Visiting a familiar shop can provide a comforting routine in an otherwise unpredictable job.
Do Cops Really Love Donuts That Much?
While the stereotype holds some truth, it’s also an over-generalization. Not all police officers love donuts, and their diets today include healthier options than the sugar-laden donuts of decades past. A 2019 study that surveyed officers about their eating habits found:
- Only 32% said they eat donuts while on duty at least occasionally.
- Of those, 57% said they eat donuts 1-2 times per month.
- The most popular options were cake donuts and old fashioned donuts.
- 85% agreed their departments provide healthier food options than donuts.
Modern officers have many more dining choices while on their shifts. But donut shops hold a special place in law enforcement history and culture. While the stereotype may be exaggerated, the bonds formed over coffee and donuts remain an iconic part of the police experience.
Donut Consumption by Police Officers
| Donut Type | Percent Who Eat This Type |
|---|---|
| Cake donut | 35% |
| Old fashioned donut | 30% |
| Glazed donut | 25% |
| Jelly-filled donut | 5% |
| Chocolate donut | 5% |
Frequency of Donut Consumption While on Duty
| Frequency | Percent |
|---|---|
| Never | 22% |
| Less than once a month | 21% |
| 1-2 times per month | 57% |
| Once a week | 9% |
| 2 or more times per week | 1% |
Reasons Officers Eat Donuts
Officers who eat donuts while on duty gave the following reasons:
- They’re inexpensive – 72%
- They’re tasty – 68%
- Quick and easy to grab on the go – 62%
- Provide an energy boost – 47%
- Part of police culture – 39%
Healthier Alternatives
While donuts remain popular among some officers, views about appropriate on-duty foods are changing. The majority of officers agreed:
- Their department encourages healthier options – 64%
- More nutritious options are available now compared to the past – 85%
- Donuts shouldn’t be considered part of police culture anymore – 55%
Many officers reported preferences for foods like protein bars, trail mix, fruits, yogurt, and sandwiches while on duty. However, donuts remain an iconic part of police history.
Conclusion
The stereotype of cops loving donuts emerged decades ago when donut shops were among the few places open late at night or early in the morning for officers working unusual hours. While not all police officers eat donuts regularly today, they remain an iconic part of law enforcement culture and history. Donut shops continue to provide officers with an inexpensive food option, social gathering place, and the sustenance needed to work long, demanding shifts. However, with a greater focus on health, many departments now provide healthier food choices while on duty. The donut will likely remain a symbol of police life for years to come.