Consumer demand for protein remains elevated, yet comparable levels of confusion persist among consumers
In the ever-evolving world of dining, protein has emerged as a popular choice among consumers, driving a strong demand for protein-rich dishes. This trend is not lost on establishments like Snooze A.M. Café and Panda Express, who are catering to this demand with a variety of options.
Snooze A.M. Café, a breakfast specialist, recognises the importance of providing educational tools and guidelines for protein consumption. They have rolled out Protein Pancakes in January, providing 32 grams of protein per serving, and introduced Almond Butter Coconut Porridge this month, a plant-based protein option. The Café also offers Protein Trio Omelets and other high-protein choices on their menu.
Similarly, Panda Express has launched five Balanced Protein Plates, each with protein content listed per serving. For instance, the Harmonious Macros Plate with Grilled Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Beef with Super Greens provides a substantial 57 grams of protein.
The International Food Information Council (IFIC) survey reveals a gap between what people say they are doing and what they know about their protein goals. Despite the growing interest in protein, many Americans are unaware of the optimal amount they should consume each day. In fact, 79% of Americans are either unaware or unsure of their daily protein requirements.
The Harvard School of Public Health advises that the average healthy person should not consume more than 2 grams protein per kilogram of body weight, or about 125 grams per day for someone weighing 140 pounds. Consuming too much protein can lead to health issues such as an increased risk of kidney stones and potentially heart disease, especially if red meat is a major source.
Restaurants play a crucial role in guiding customers towards healthier protein choices. By displaying protein content and calorie counts clearly on menus or digital ordering screens, offering visual icons or labels for easy identification of high-protein items, creating educational content explaining the benefits of protein, and training staff to advise customers on customising orders, restaurants can support customers in choosing protein-rich, healthier meals across breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Protein is not just a buzzword; it is a crucial nutrient for overall health and well-being. According to the IFIC, protein is the most sought-after nutrient, the most followed eating pattern, and the top characteristic consumers use to define a 'healthy' food. Registered dietitian nutritionist Carolyn O'Neill stated that most consumers consider protein healthy because it builds muscle, strength, and overall well-being and fitness.
As more Americans strive to consume more protein, with 71% planning to do so by 2025, it is essential for establishments like Snooze A.M. Café and Panda Express to continue providing a variety of protein-rich options and educational tools to help customers make informed choices. By doing so, these restaurants are not just meeting a trend, but contributing to the health and well-being of their customers.
- Snooze A.M. Café and Panda Express, recognizing the growing interest in protein and its importance for health-and-wellness, have innovated their menus to cater to this demand, offering protein-rich dishes and educational tools.
- Drawing from science, the Harvard School of Public Health advises moderate protein consumption for overall health, emphasizing the need to avoid excess intake to prevent potential health issues like kidney stones and heart disease.
- In the realm of fitness-and-exercise and healthy-diets, protein plays a pivotal role due to its ability to build muscle, strength, and support well-being. Given its reputation as a 'healthy' nutrient, more consumers are leaning towards protein-rich options to boost their protein intake.
