Do Security Guards Still Love Donuts? Exploring a Long-Standing Myth
In movies, TV shows, and memes, security guards and police officers are often shown with donuts in hand.
This image – humorous, sometimes exaggerated – has become one of the most recognised cultural symbols in the world.
But how did it start, and does it still reflect reality?
Let’s look at where this stereotype came from, how it differs by country, and whether today’s night-shift workers still turn to donuts as their snack of choice.
The Origins of the “Guard and Donut” Trope
The connection between uniformed security or police and donuts began in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s.
During that time, most restaurants and diners closed by 10 PM. However, donut shops stayed open through the night to prepare batches for the morning rush.
That made them one of the only places where police officers and other night shift workers could grab a hot drink and snack while on duty.
Over time, officers became regular customers. Shop owners appreciated their presence for security, and in return, they offered friendly service and coffee refills.
This became part of a night shift culture, especially in big cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
Hollywood picked up on the trend. Films and sitcoms portrayed officers sitting with coffee and a glazed donut, often in late-night scenes.
Over decades, this symbol of rest during duty turned into a running joke.
Is It Still True Today?
The stereotype is still popular, but the reality has shifted.
In modern times, security guards and police have many more options:
- Convenience stores and vending machines are now open 24/7
- Energy drinks, protein bars, and meat pies are more common, especially outside the U.S.
- Diet awareness and health-conscious shifts have reduced sugar-heavy snacks for some professionals
Still, the donut remains an occasional favourite, not only for nostalgia but for practical reasons:
- It’s affordable
- It pairs with coffee
- It’s easy to eat quickly
In South Africa
In South Africa, where this stereotype is less well-known, security guards on night shift more commonly eat biltong, vetkoek, samoosas, or fast food bought before shift start.
The same happens in other countries.
However, the image of the donut still carries global meaning due to imported TV shows and movies.
Read how the donut stereotype affects public perception of South African security guards.
How the Stereotype Shows Up Around the World
United States
Still the strongest link.
Donut culture and police imagery appear in The Simpsons, Zootopia, and dozens of comedies.
The idea is often used affectionately, though sometimes as satire.
Indonesia
Night shift workers in security and toll booth roles often favour instant noodles or fried snacks (gorengan).
Donuts are popular in urban cafés but not linked to uniforms.
Philippines
Security guards are highly visible in malls, condos, and banks.
The donut link is rare. Rice meals and bakery bread are more common during shifts.
India
Guards typically eat home-packed tiffins, including roti or rice-based meals.
Donuts are gaining popularity in urban areas, but the image has not taken root in popular culture.
Canada
The connection is similar to the U.S., especially with the dominance of Tim Hortons, a donut and coffee chain closely associated with police and security workers.
The Power of a Snack Symbol
So why does this stereotype persist – even in countries where it doesn’t reflect reality?
The answer lies in media repetition. From cop dramas to stand-up comedy, the donut is shorthand for:
- Late-night shifts
- Public service roles
- Quiet moments in between high-alert tasks
It’s an easy, visual symbol. It makes characters instantly recognisable, and it adds a touch of lightness to serious professions.
Final Thought: Donuts and Identity
The “donuts and guards” link is a globalised myth, anchored in U.S. culture but recognised worldwide.
Even if most security workers today snack on healthier, spicier, or more local treats, the donut remains a badge of cultural storytelling.
Whether you’re a guard, nurse, truck driver, or student pulling an all-nighter, the call of a fresh donut and coffee still has universal appeal.
Interested in the South African View?
If you’d like to see how this stereotype plays out in South African pop culture and security industry perceptions, visit our article on Security Guard Training HQ South Africa.