As we begin to look toward 2020, we find Americans are becoming increasingly concerned about their own impact on planet earth. As they embrace more-sustainable habits and customs in their daily lives, they’ve begun to expect the same from the companies they support through food purchases, including the increasing number of snacks that factor into their daily diets.
We’re already seeing such a movement impacting foodservice. According to Mintel’s 2019 “Foodservice Trends” report, 46 percent of consumers say environmental responsibility is an important factor in their food choices. These same diners are incorporating environmental responsibility into how they choose where they enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner—and the midday and late-night snacks that fill in the gaps. As more restaurants jump on the green bandwagon to attract more of this growing base of discerning customers, sustainability will become the “new normal,” predicts Mintel, and foodservice operators—and the snack producers and bakers supplying them—will need to take more innovative steps to stand out.