More Diners Are Responding To Health Demands

In recent years, more people have become aware of the health implications as a result

of a poor diet and lack of exercise, and are embracing a healthier lifestyle. People are now are choosing to eat foods that are healthy and nutritious. Many consumers are becoming pickier about what restaurants they dine due to health concerns. Restaurants are recognizing these demands by providing more nutritious dishes on their menu. These healthy options are important to consumers when picking a restaurant to dine.

According to the National Restaurant Association and Mintel reports, "72 percent of adults are trying to eat more healthfully than two years ago." Consumers are now looking for nutritious meals that are not fried, and are rich in antioxidants and vitamin, and are high in Omega-3 fatty acids. Meals that are low in fat and calories have become popular among consumers. As well, heart healthy foods that are low in salt and sugar are important to restaurant goers. Foods that are high in ingredients that reduce the risk of disease such as cancer and diabetes are also popular.

Many restaurants are now offering dishes that include fish such as salmon because it is rich in Omega- 3 fatty acids. The meals are prepared in ways that provide less fat such as Trans-fat, but still retain the flavor that customers love. As well, restaurants are including healthy ingredients such as a variety of nuts and fruit with their meals to increase the nutritional value of the dishes, but also enhance the flavor of the meal.

Restaurants are now adding healthy ingredients to their sauces, glazes, and vinegar. For instance, the use of pomegranate has significantly increased in restaurants. It is rich in antioxidants, and also has a delicious tangy taste. Other antioxidant foods that are being used more in restaurants include: red wine, blueberry, dark chocolate, organic tea such as green tea, cranberry, acai berry, and much more.

Consumers are not only cutting down on the amount of unhealthy food they eat, they are also cutting down on the quantity of food they eat. Many people feel that restaurants tend to give them too much food on their plates. Restaurants have noticed that a lot of their meals are being returned with some of it uneaten or taken home in doggie bags. As a result, they are now offering much smaller size portions.

Fast food restaurants are also jumping on the health meal bandwagon by adding healthy foods to their menu. Instead of finding only fried burgers and French fries, one can now find such healthy alternatives as salads, carrot sticks, fruit, veggie burgers, and fries, cooked in canola oil instead of animal fat, and much more. They even offer healthy desserts such as yogurt with berries and granola sprinkled on top.

Consumers are now realizing that obesity is an epidemic with a broad range of health implications. Healthy menu options are becoming increasingly important to consumers. As they embrace a healthier diet and lifestyle, restaurants are adapting to the change by offering meals that meet each customer's healthy diet preferences. Those restaurants who offer healthy alternatives are seeing an increase in attracting and retaining customers.

by: Adriana Noton

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