Breige Mc Bride, Bord Bia, New York
With US obesity levels and its associated problems on the rise, an increasing number of consumers are becoming more concerned about their eating habits both in and outside the home. According to Mintel, consumers are increasingly aware of nutritional values, with 62% hoping to make ‘better’ choices over the coming year. The NPD recently reported that healthy eating to feel better was a key driver within the foodservice sector. However, poor levels of information were cited as a significant barrier.
US foodservice outlets are becoming increasingly proactive in providing consumers with an array of healthier options but also the breakdown of nutritional content - Driven in part by local State law. Quick Service Outlets such as Prêt A Manger, Subway, Mc Donald’s and Taco Bell all provide healthy alternatives and their nutritional breakdown to consumers.
According to Nations Restaurant News, when consumers have this knowledge there is a tendency to opt for the healthier option. However, it seems that taste and quality remain key factors in the decision making process: when choosing between healthy options, consumers will choose quality ahead of lower calorie content.
This provides food companies the opportunity to supply operators with quality ingredients that taste good. According to Unilever’s World Menu Report: Irish consumers would welcome nutritional information from foodservice operators’, with 87% claiming this would influence their choices. In addition, two thirds said that information on fat, salt and calorie content would be a welcome addition to menus when eating out.
For further information, please email Breige.mcbride@bordbia.ie