A cross-border nutritional body has found that almost one quarter of the Irish diet is prepared outside of the home.
The research from safefood also discovered that many takeaway 'kids' burgers are the same size or larger than 'regular' adult ones.
The agency is warning that just one large burger meal can contain the daily recommendation of calorie intake for adults.
The report is the latest in a series of nutritional reviews of popular takeaway foods, with the research carried out across 47 take-away outlets on the island of Ireland.
safefood is trying to raise consumer awareness about the calories contained in takeout food so that informed choices can be made.
Dr Cliodhna Foley-Nolan, safefood's Director of Human Health & Nutrition, explained that consumers consistently say they want the appropriate information to make better choices.
"While takeaway burgers are a source of iron and protein they contain considerable levels of fat and salt. In addition the usual burger meal is not balanced and is practically devoid of vegetables and fibre."
She added: "People need to be aware of portion sizes when it comes to ordering takeaway burgers. Takeaway burgers are a meal and should not be considered as just an in-between meals or late-night snack."
A survey of Chinese takeaway foods will be completed later this year.