Differential effects of chow and purified diet on the consumption of sucrose solution and lard and the development of obesity

► Chow choice increased energy intake and body fat compared to chow fed control rats. ► LFD choice rats did not increase carcass fat content compared to the LFD controls. ► Rats consumed more lard when given the chow choice compared to the LFD choice diet. ► The chow choice diet is a practical model of rapid onset diet-induced obesity.