Yet, the logic of conspicuous consumption may as well work the other way round: Where being fat was seen as a sign on high social status once today it's a sign

Yet, the logic of conspicuous consumption may as well work the other way round: Where being fat was seen as a sign on high social status once today it's a sign of low social status. One can signal status be consuming less rather than more. Actually, this doesn't mean that the fat person is consuming more - in fact, they might be consuming less in bulk. The contents of their consumption differ greatly though. While the well-to-do person might be eating a lot of fresh vegetables, lean meats, and plenty of whole grains, the poor person might dine entirely on cheap boxed food, TV dinners, and dollar-menu fast food while spending less per month on food.