CHICAGO -- Healthy, transparent and local foods are top of mind for today’s consumers, a finding that’s evident in many foodservice offerings across segments. Callouts such as gluten-free, vegetarian and locally sourced are featured on nearly half of all foodservice menus. Global foods, snacks and beverages are some vehicles operators are using to provide more clean-label items for health-minded consumers.
Interestingly, fewer restaurants are offering soft drinks than before, at 80% compared to 83% a year ago—a finding in line with today’s consumers who seek healthier, less sugary beverages. This trend is more prevalent in limited-service restaurants, with only 67% of fast casuals and 69% of QSRs saying they offer soda.
Meanwhile, many operators plan to use education as a means to further consumers’ growing emphasis on healthy eating.
“Staff training to let consumers know of health benefits already existing in operation,” said one full-service restaurant operator.