QSR Magazine has released its annual survey of consumer preferences and attitudes on quick-service restaurants, examining, among other things: how often consumers eat fast food, the factors most important in choosing a restaurant, favorite fast-food menu items, whether fast food has gotten healthier and more.

"The yearly consumer survey is a great way for restaurant owners and operators to really understand what is motivating their customers' preferences," says Blair Chancey, associate editor of QSR magazine. "It's also a great thing for consumers, because it gives them a voice in the industry.”

The magazine posted the survey results on its Web site at www.QSRmagazine.com/americathinks08.

The publication surveyed 673 people, 68% of whom were female and 32% male. The average age of respondents was 47 years old.

In a bit of a paradox, McDonald’s topped the list in two opposing questions: (1) What’s your favorite fast-food restaurant, and (2) What’s your least-favorite fast-food restaurant. About 15% of consumers chose McDonald’s for both questions.

Some of the survey questions and results: