Healthy Food Trends in Restaurants
Response to Americans Demand for More Nutritious Food Menus
Jan 1, 2009
Research recently released by the National Restaurant Association (NRA) shows that Americans are looking for healthier options and "greener" restaurants as will as value and convenience when they eat out. A survey found that there is a good response to customers' preferences from chefs and owners of restaurants from fast foods to upscale dining.
Healthier and Nutritional Trends for 2009
It is predicted that in 2009 nearly half of all consumers' food budget will be spent in restaurants. The establishments that respond in meeting Americans' demand for change will survive during the economic slow down.Diners are insisting that if the restaurants want their patronage, they will have to be innovative in providing nutritious meals at budget prices.
Among the hottest trends will be healthy kids' meals. According to the NRA research, of 210 culinary items on the NRA "What's Hot" survey of more that 1,600 American Culinary Federation member chefs, nutritionally balanced children's dishes came in as No. 4, and fruits/vegetable side dishes for kids ranked sixth. Fast food operators named healthy options for kids' meals as the No. 1 food trend in their segment of the industry for 2009.
Nutrition and Health Emphasis
Underscoring the importance of healthful foods, produce and fruit items, smaller dishes, fish and gluten-free/allergy conscious meals were among the top 20 items on the annual chef survey. According to NRA consumer research:
- Three in four adults say they are trying to eat healthier now at restaurants than they did two years ago.
- Nearly three in 10 adults, about 27 percent, have gone on line to search for nutritional information about restaurant food.
Demand for Local Produce
The demand for local produce has become particularly popular at higher-end restaurants. However, close to three in 10 fast food operators serve locally produced items and nearly half of them believe these will become more popular in the future as 70 percent of adults say they are more likely to visit a restaurant that offers locally produced food.
Going Green Benefits Restaurant
The survey showed that restaurant patrons like the idea of "greener" steps taken by the establishments. About 44 percent told interviews that they are more likely to choose a restaurant based on whether or not the restaurant is using sound practices in the areas of energy and water conversation.
Lifestyle Attractions of Restaurants
Americans generally consider eating out an essential part of their lifestyles.
- Nearly seven in 10 adults say that purchasing meals from restaurants, take-out and delivery places makes it easier for families with children to manage their day-to-day lives.
- Nearly eight in 10 feel that going out to a restaurant with family and/or friends gives them an opportunity to socialize and a better way for them to use their leisure time than cooking at home.
The restaurants that survive during the economic slump will be those who react quickly to the demands being made by Americans for healthier, nutritious meals at prices they can afford.
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