CHICAGO — With health and wellness rising to the forefront of consumer preference, foodservice operators have the opportunity to expand their offerings to meet demand and promote physical, mental and social wellbeing.
According to Circana’s recent webinar, A Pulse on Consumer Well-Being: US Food & Beverage, health-focused consumers account for $638 billion in total food and beverage spending.
“Consumers are looking for wellness across every aspect of their lives, and food and beverages are playing a critical role in this transformation,” said Sally Lyons Wyatt, global executive VP and chief advisor at Circana. “Our complete food and beverage research shows that while the retail sector is excelling at meeting these needs, there is significant opportunity for foodservice providers to innovate and offer wellness-centered dining experiences.”
The report shows that wellness trends are shaping consumer behavior across three key areas:
- Physical Wellness: Consumers are seeking fresh, nutrient-dense foods that support their physical health goals. While retailers have responded by offering a variety of minimally processed food, foodservice have room to grow as dining out remains focused on convenience and indulgence.
- Mental Health: A little over a third (35%) of consumers view food as a vital tool for managing stress and improving mood. This may cause a shift away from the current “treat yourself” culture that involves indulging in products that aren’t necessarily good for mental wellbeing in the long run.
- Social Engagement: As consumers search for new forms of entertainment, experiential dining is in high demand. Foodservice chains can adapt to meet demand by blending food with social interaction.
For more information or to watch a replay of the webinar, visit the Circana website.
