From Vendor Partner Smucker Away From Home
Plant-based protein is more than just a fringe curiosity among consumers today. It’s a welcome new option for those who want to make better-for-you eating choices. As you look to meet the needs of your customers, here are four key factors to keep in mind.
1. The seeds have already been planted. Many consumers are trying to increase consumption of plant-based proteins. So, you don’t have to sell them on the merits. The demand is already there. You simply need to find delicious new ways to add plant-based proteins to your menu...and promote it when you do. Make sure you include the plant-based menu additions on your websites with callouts and feature them on your social media channels.
2. The environment is right. Many consumers, especially in certain age groups and with certain lifestyle habits, believe plant-based foods are generally better for the environment. So, think about other ways you can enhance the environmentally-friendly aspects of your operation to further connect with environmentally-conscious customers (i.e. add recycling bins, install energy-efficient light fixtures, etc.).
3. Anticipate roadblocks. As is the case with virtually every trend, there are always going to be those who are reluctant to change. So, be sure to create nice photography and mouthwatering descriptions of your plant-based offerings to play up the appetite appeal.
4. Flex your prep skills. It doesn’t have to be an either/or proposition when it comes to the protein choice at mealtime. Consumers today are open to trying dishes that contain both animal and plant proteins. So, get creative with your plant-based ideas! Or, by simply adding the option to substitute a plant-based protein for a single meat ingredient in a dish, you can add an enticing new option.
Looking for more plant-based protein insights? Click here to find some great additional information in the original Plant-Based Insights blog from Smucker Away From Home!
