Salads now 'more popular than fish and chips'

Burgers, burritos and barbecue dishes are coming under pressure as consumers’ appetite for more nutritious dishes continues to grow, according to foodservice consultancy Horizons’ latest Menu Trends Report​.

Peter Backman, managing director of Horizons, said: “Customers are now much more willing to try new foods, particularly those with perceived health benefits.”

Influence of social​

He added: “Social media has also prompted the sharing of recipes and food ideas, while popular lifestyle and fitness bloggers have made an impact on what we eat at home, and therefore what we expect to see on eating-out menus.”

More than ever before, operators needed to keep up with the pace of change, he added.

Horizons’ survey reported that as well as salads surging 54% in popularity since last year, pulses and fruits had also seen one of the largest year-on-year increases with the term ‘superfood’ being used 75% on menus than it was for the same period last year.

Gluten-free labelling​

Gluten-free terminology had also risen, with wheat-free option up 80% on menus.

Backman added: “The trend for healthy lifestyle eating is becoming more popular and high street menus are now reflecting this.

“Operators now have to make a difficult decision about what to keep on their menus. It’s important they stay in touch with what’s hot and what’s not.”