While nutritional data about calories, sugar, fat and salt content is now common, the ‘Food Insights Report’ indicates that there is mounting interest in other elements such as vitamins and protein with particularly high demand from parents, 67% of whom would like to see the protein, sugar, salt and vitamin content of dishes added to menus.

The report also shows how menus can improve the positioning of vegetarian or vegan dishes. More than half of all consumers (52%) and nearly two thirds of younger adults (63%) say they want to reduce their meat consumption, and three in five are more likely to order a meal with reduced animal products if they can choose items to substitute, for example a meat free burger patty with dairy cheese.

James Ashurst, CGA’s client director – foodservice, commented: “Interest in well-being surged during the Covid-19 pandemic, and it shows no sign of slowing.

“Many consumers now expect food businesses to be able to provide the nutritional information they want in order to support their healthy lifestyles, and venues that don’t deliver risk falling behind competitors. Understanding exactly what these mindful consumers want is crucial, and our report provides the tools that are needed to optimise menus and maximise spend.”