Effects of a single exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on macro- and microstructures of feeding and drinking in two differently TCDD-sensitive rat strains

► TCDD suppressed feeding at different times of day in differently TCDD-sensitive rats. ► In sensitive rats decreased feeding chiefly resulted from reduced meal size. ► In resistant rats decreased feeding chiefly resulted from reduced meal frequency. ► Differences among rat strains suggest different TCDD effects on feeding regulation. ► AHR may have a modulating role in the circadian rhythms of consummatory behaviors.