This old German saying indicates that breakfast is considered a very important meal in the German-speaking countries. About three quarters of the population eat breakfast every morning (81% in Germany, 77% in Austria, 65% in Switzerland). The word Frühstück can be traced back to the 15^th century and means something like the first piece of bread that is eaten in the morning. The English equivalent “breakfast” refers to breaking the nightly fast.

Most people think eating breakfast provides them with energy to start their day, helps them to concentrate on their work or studies, and to perform well. Many people also see it as a social opportunity to spend time with their family before a busy workday while others spend some time reading the newspaper, checking emails, or planning their days.

The most common beverage at breakfast is coffee and tea for adults, whereas children usually drink milk, cocoa, juice or water. Bread or rolls, butter, jam, honey, Nutella, cold cuts, cheese, fruit and cereal are the staple of most breakfasts. Some people only eat sweet things for breakfast (jam, honey, Nutella, cereal), while others prefer more savoury toppings for their bread. And yet others like to mix. On the weekend, people often take more time for their breakfast or even extend it into a brunch, and add eggs in various forms to their meal.

See the videos in the “Zum Spaß” section for more information about “Frühstück”.