4 Ways Restaurants Can Adapt to Healthier Eating Habits

As customers grow more health-conscious, restaurants have a golden opportunity to boost foot traffic by enhancing not just the flavour but also the health credentials of their dishes. We sought insights from Entegra’s Culinary Services teams on how eateries can embrace this health trend and ensure they remain ahead of the curve.

Adjust Serving Sizes 

Diminished appetites can be observed in many customers, which implies that eateries must adapt. Some patrons may find themselves ordering less, forgoing starters and desserts, or opting for smaller servings when eating out. It might be prudent to reevaluate serving sizes and pricing strategies to cater to those who might struggle to finish a standard meal. 

The advantage for you? Diminished portions could lead to savings on operational costs and also assist in minimising food wastage.

Offer Healthier Menu Choices 

Eateries may need to modify their menus to cater to their customers’ emerging preferences. With a growing demand for dishes low in carbohydrates, sugar, and calories, operators can introduce ingredients from Mediterranean blue-zone diets that encompass nuts, grains, fruits, vegetables, and fish. 

Revise Menu Descriptions 

It might be the right time to phase out terms such as, “all you can eat” as descriptions that imply overindulgence could deter customers rather than attract them. Present-day diners are making their food selections based on descriptions that promote health and wellness, including details about preparation, origin of ingredients, and more. Being attuned to changing tastes could involve promoting half portions, small plates, or sampler options. 

Rethink Menu Ideation 

As your menu undergoes changes, you may seek advice on crafting new dishes that cater to diners seeking alternative options. Incorporating culinary expertise to assist you in conceptualising and promoting healthy choices, such as plant-based dishes, can aid in updating your purchasing strategy to attract new customers as well as retain your current clientele. 

Discover more about Entegra’s culinary services.

Having navigated through the pandemic, soaring inflation, labour challenges, and supply-chain disruptions, the restaurant sector has proven itself resilient. Nevertheless, there remains a need to swiftly adjust to your customers’ expectations, and as the world’s leading food group purchasing organisation, Entegra is in a prime position to offer support.

If you want to learn more about optimising your menu, enter your details below and download a free copy of our menu engineering white paper.