The Facts
Australians love their fast food. So much so that they make 51.5 million visits to fast food chains every month. These results were based on Enhanced Media Metrics Australia 2014 report that surveyed 54,000 people over the age of 14 on their eating habits.
They found that the average Australian eats fast food at least four times a month and that the most significant demographic for frequenting fast food restaurants were those aged 14 – 29 years old.
Furthermore, of these 51.5 million visits, the survey found that the majority of these fast food visits were for takeaway meals. Price and convenience were the most significant factors in deciding whether to choose fast food or not.
A Shift to Healthy Food Choices
With a growing consumer demand for healthier food, fast food chains are moving toward providing healthier food options for its customers. Low-fat, low-calorie, and gluten-free choices are becoming more readily available on the menu. Without sacrificing taste, convenience, and price, fast food chains are listening to what its customer base wants.
The clean food movement seems to be shifting into the fast food realm and the major players are making a change. For example, Taco Bell is making efforts to offer whole food choices by eliminating artificial ingredients and using free-range eggs. McDonald’s has been reported to be working with dieticians to lighten up their menu, choosing antibiotic-free chicken, and adding more salads to its offerings.
Fresh Produce is on the Menu
If you are in the restaurant business and are considering offering fresh and healthy fast food choices on your menu then consider a sample of the following fast food chains that are doing just this.
Freshii – Fresh is definitely on the menu with this food chain. They offer choices that are fresh, healthy, and packed with veggies. Consider their options of fresh soups, burritos, wraps, and salads.
Maoz – This is a vegetarian falafel shop that offers delicious pita pockets, salads, falafels, and hummus. They also offer a self-serve salad bar. Their philosophy is to offer quick, scrumptious vegetarian food.
Boost Juice – Offering nutrient-packed combinations of fruits and vegetables in smoothies and juices, Boost Juice is a well-loved and famous brand that makes healthy eating delicious and fun.
Red Rooster – This fast food chain is an Australian icon that is emerging as a delicious and healthy alternative for fast food consumers. The foundation for its nutritious offerings is its oven-roasted chicken that is full of flavor and without all of the fat and calories.
Fast food is here to stay. Consumers want it fresh, fast, inexpensive, and delicious. It’s up to you on how you offer it to them.
References:
- http://www.goodfood.com.au/eat-out/news/average-australian-eats-fast-food-nearly-every-week-20140311-34k15
- https://www.lifehacker.com.au/2014/03/which-is-australias-favourite-fast-food-chain/
- https://www.businessinsider.com.au/healthy-fast-food-chains-2013-4#read-more-11
- http://www.healthyfoodguide.com.au/articles/2008/september/healthier-fast-food-choices
- http://www.news.com.au/finance/business/retail/veggies-take-centre-plate-as-healthy-fast-food-chains-expand/news-story/4853eed264271acecc6930ef48ff7b80