You know, it's amazing how wildly different expectations people from different places have. Really highlights the completely arbitrary/social nature of most of our customs. One person thinks "why would you even consider eating while driving, this is so insane on so many levels I don't even know where to start enumerating them" while another thinks "of course I should be allowed to eat while driving, that's one of the most natural things".

A couple of days ago there was an article on HN about the littering behaviour and causes of it. As some commenters noticed, the main reason is simply that people do whatever the hell they feel like doing, without much consideration. Driving and suddenly feel hungry? Eat something right now. There is a wrapper paper in one of your hands now and it's inconvenient to hold it while eating and driving? Throw it out of the window. Etc.

And yes, I've seen debaters on the Internet arguing for allowing DUI, for non-requirement of seat belts, for allowing smoking in public places etc, basically for anything that mildly inconveniences a person for a vague personal and/or public benefit. And on HN too, about a year or so ago?

P.S. About "eating food that is a fuel for your body" — there's a fancy term "postprandial somnolence" for that feeling of drowsiness after a meal. Definitely something you'd like to experience while driving (/S).

I'm guessing you live in a place where you don't actually travel that far or has significant mass transit options available to you. Most likely a country in the EU (aka very small distances). You should come visit North America and try and understand how different rural North America is compared to anywhere the EU.

I would argue that the customs and expectations from different places arise from the different needs in those communities and/or the level of regulation that is tolerated from the people. Switzerland has a lot of winding mountain roads - so likely need two hands on the wheel at all times whereas North America has a lot of flat straight roads where it is quite reasonable to drive with one hand on the wheel for short periods of time. Also Tesla auto-pilot helps out.

Additionally I suspect that you argue so strongly in favor of no eating in your car makes me think that you live in a state with very strong control of your population and it is well tolerated by the population - with assumed upside benefits as a result.