Unilever Food Solutions (UFS) recently unveiled their “Future Menus Top North America Trends 2024” report, which outlines several key menu trends anticipated to shape the restaurant industry in the coming years. This comprehensive report provides insights on how these trends can be integrated into restaurant operations to create distinct dining experiences:
- Modernized Comfort Food
- Low Waste Menus
- Irresistible Vegetables
- Local Abundance
- The New Sharing
Brandon Collins, Executive Chef for Unilever Food Solutions North America, emphasized the objective of the report: “With Future Menus 2024, our goal is to help chefs and operators put these trends into action and create unique dining experiences for their customers.” He highlighted the restaurant industry’s ongoing evolution to meet diners’ changing expectations and dietary preferences, affirming UFS’s commitment to supporting industry operators with necessary resources and tools.
Unilever Food Solutions: Low Waste Menu trend on the rise
The “Future Menus 2024” report serves as a detailed trend and recipe guide filled with solutions addressing industry-wide challenges such as cost-saving initiatives that alleviate labor shortages and recipes inspired by forward-thinking trends. While each trend can stand alone, many align naturally to foster vibrant, nourishing menus that both chefs and customers can appreciate.
The Low Waste Menu trend, driven by rising ingredient costs and a strong commitment to sustainability, encourages chefs to be resourceful in order to reduce waste and maximize ingredient usage. According to the report, 65% of foodservice operators find this trend highly relevant and anticipate its growth.
Indeed, the trend is already taking hold among major establishments worldwide. In the UK, popular hospitality chain Hilton is launching “Taste of Zero Waste” menus across four of its chains along the country. Its objective is simple: reducing food waste within its value chain.
The trend of Irresistible Vegetables caters to the nearly one-third of the US population that has shown a strong affinity for plant-based food. Over 40% of consumers believe that the availability of plant-based options enhances the restaurant experience. The Local Abundance trend celebrates local ingredients and producers, which is not only popular but also profitable: 77% of Gen Z diners and 70% of Baby Boomers are willing to pay more for dishes that feature locally sourced ingredients.
To access the “Future Menu North America Trends 2024” report, click here. For more information about Unilever Food Solutions, visit their website at www.unileverfoodsolutions.us.
Additional references include the Kantar e-Panel Global Trendsetter Report from August 2023, the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA) and Datassential’s 2022 “The State of Plant-Based in Food Service,” and Unilever Food Solutions’ “Future Menus Trend Report” from 2024.
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