A Change in Fast Food Trends – Fast Casual

When I say “fast food” your mind probably goes instantly to an image of greasy burgers, fries, and drive-thru service. With over 60 years of business, it’s hard to imagine not being able to get a hot meal in a matter of seconds, pay for it with pocket change, and go on with your day. Gallup research has found 8 in 10 Americans state that they eat fast food at least monthly and 57% of young adults report eating it at least weekly. When picturing our typical image of fast food this becomes frightening for the health of our nation. But what if we can make a change to the fast food trend?

With more people being conscious of what they’re
eating and wanting healthier options

comes a new type of restaurant that we call “fast casual”. Fast casual restaurants dance between traditional, counter-service fast-food restaurants and casual dining with table service (ex. Cool Greens, Chipotle, Panera, Provision Kitchen, etc). They have interior designs that show a sense of sustainability and community, and they strive for transparency in ingredients by utilizing more local, organic foods.

As consumers continue to change their taste preferences, the fast food market will change alike. A study found that about one-third of consumers stated they would pay more for healthier and more transparent ingredients and that 76% of adults would return to a restaurant if it started offering healthier options. Would you? -SY