Weekly Roundup – Week of 7.15.24
July 19, 2024
From new tech to test kitchens, read this week’s roundup of food and beverage-related news – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:
Manufacturers Feeling Pressure To Remove Seed Oils
Health and wellness influencers and experts have vocalized the potential negative impacts of seed oils on health. Concerns such as high levels of omega-6 fatty acids, inflammation, and links to obesity and other chronic diseases have been highlighted. Seed oils are used across the food manufacturing industry and are found in products ranging from cookies and crackers to granola and canned tuna. They are valued for their versatility, flavor enhancement, extended shelf life, and cooking stability. However, to meet the evolving preferences of health-conscious and sustainability-minded consumers, brands are considering alternatives such as organic options, coconut oil, olive oil, avocado oil, and ghee. Read Article.
Is Gamification Tech The Next Innovation For C-Store Foodservice?
Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores thinks so. The C-Store chain is rolling out gamification technology at its partnering restaurants to enhance operational efficiency. This innovative system features three 27-inch monitors placed throughout the restaurants, tracking key performance metrics like greet times, order processing, and food handoff duration. Metrics are compared across the company, with top-performing locations receiving rewards. Love’s is committing over $2 million over the next five years to implement this technology across its convenience store network, ensuring that every new location will be equipped with this system. Learn More.
Key Findings: Adding Value Offerings Drives Traffic
According to a new report by Placer.ai, major restaurant chains have experienced significant increases in traffic by refreshing or adding value offerings to their menus. Buffalo Wild Wings, for instance, saw a 45.6% increase in visits on Mondays and a 49.3% increase on Wednesdays with their $20 unlimited boneless chicken wings promotion. Similarly, Chili’s updated its 3 for Me menu, resulting in double-digit year-over-year traffic increases. Even with a simple $5 Meal Deal, McDonald’s saw traffic elevated in the mid-single-digits compared to the average foot traffic year-to-date. More chains are joining this strategy, reaping the benefits of value-driven offerings. Read On.
Inside Taco Bell’s Test Kitchen
As featured on Good Morning America, ABC News offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at Taco Bell’s test kitchen as the company gears up for the fast-food wars with new menu items. ABC News’ Ashan Singh explores how the Mexican-inspired fast-food chain keeps its offerings fresh and previews exciting new collaborations. Items tested include the KitKat Chocoladilla, Jalapeno Popper Quesarito, and Street Chalupas. Liz Matthews, Global Chief Food Innovation Officer, shares insights into Taco Bell’s process of trial and error, consumer outreach, and their commitment to delivering menu items that resonate. Watch Video.
Datassential Insight: Americans Love For Burgers Is Strong But Evolving
Burgers remain a staple of the American diet, but evolving consumer tastes and trends are reshaping the landscape. Datassential’s recently released Burgers keynote report provides essential insights for foodservice professionals to stay ahead. The report delves into how often consumers eat burgers, their preferred toppings and proteins, and their choices for buns. You’ll find valuable learnings for foodservice operators to capitalize on emerging opportunities – from balancing innovation and tradition to plant-based options waning in popularity. Read Blog.
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