For this National Nutrition Month, we’re focusing on the health & wellness side of foodservice. We get into what today’s consumer is looking for, and what “healthy” means to those guests coming in to your operations. None of your fad diets here, just good sensible intel to guide your menu. To start with, here are some of the highlights for the International Food Information Council’s latest survey:
Overall, when you look at what consumers are looking for when it comes to health on the menu, protein really jumps out. It’s leaped up the charts as a healthy menu term - up over 200% in the past 4 years according to Datassential - and is also the most sought-after nutrient by consumers according to the latest IFIC survey. It’s even more the case with younger demographics like Gen Z; they’re looking for natural, clean, and sustainable…and definitely for protein.
We asked our mate and RDN Chef Pam Smith for her take (more on Pam here): “Protein is a powerful tool, especially when in a nutrient-rich package like grassfed meat. From zinc and iron for immunity, omega 3s and essential fatty acids, there’s a lot to recommend in grassfed beef and lamb. It’s also easy for consumers to understand as a better choice – it doesn’t require a lot of explanation. Nutritious, delicious and sustainable!”
According to our favorite trends maven, Maeve Webster of Menu Matters, health-driven behaviors are strongest when there’s a “have it all” mentality. “Younger consumers especially don’t want to sacrifice or give anything up in order to eat healthy,” says Maeve. "They’re focused on mood, stress, sleep and energy, and are attracted to menu items that are simplicity-forward. They’re telling us to make it easy for them to make choices they can feel good about; menu items they will enjoy, do right by the planet, and carry those cues that it’s good for them.”
Our take? All these drivers for sustainability, natural, clean, and protein lead nicely to Australian grassfed beef and lamb. Our quality, consistency and sustainability bona fides are world-leading, and we are widely available year-round, too. In these supply-chain-stressed times, availability is one of best abilities!