Research Finds Consumer Demand for Sustainable Dining Exceeds Industry Response
New research from BITE: Building Impact Through Eaters and Datassential indicates that consumer demand for climate-smart dining options is outpacing adoption by foodservice operators, with findings to be discussed in a March 18 webinar.
A study by BITE: Building Impact Through Eaters and Datassential surveyed 1,506 U.S. consumers and 400 foodservice operators across restaurants, college and university, healthcare, business and industry, and K-12 segments. The research examined how consumer expectations for sustainable dining compare to current foodservice practices.
The study found that interest in climate-smart dining is rising, especially among Gen Z and Millennial consumers. These groups increasingly expect climate-smart options when dining out, driving interest in plant-forward meals, sustainably sourced ingredients, and new food experiences.
Despite this demand, foodservice operators report challenges in adapting, including menu changes, pricing strategies, and building confidence among cooks and chefs to implement sustainable options. The research identifies a gap between consumer expectations and the pace of industry adoption.
The findings indicate a growing opportunity for restaurants and foodservice operators to align offerings with changing consumer demand, strengthen customer loyalty, and remain competitive.
BITE and Datassential will present key findings from the second year of this multi-year study during a webinar on March 18 at 2 PM CT. The event, “Closing the Gap: Eater and Operator Perspectives on Sustainable Dining,” will address emerging trends in climate-smart dining, the influence of younger generations on food culture, areas where consumer demand exceeds industry adoption, and practical strategies for operators to meet evolving customer preferences.
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