Menu/Flavor Trends

Seafood is hot

In fact, studies indicate that Americans are eating more and more seafood every year and demanding more from their favorite dining spots.  Consider these facts:

• Seafood now outpaces chicken for dinner and steak for lunch.
• While 1 in 5 households reported eating seafood more than once per week; 62% of consumers surveyed eat seafood at restaurants.
• 51% of seafood eaters consume more than they did five years ago
• 77% of U.S. adults eat seafood at least once a month
• There are over 635 varieties of seafood on restaurant menus today.
• 35% of consumers who describe themselves as "fit" are eating seafood away-from-home on at least a weekly basis.
• 60% of Seafood is menued in Full Service Restaurants - both chain and independents.
• Independents and Non-commercial establishments account for 64% of seafood consumed away from home, while chains make up 36%.
• Seafood menu items increased 17% over the last 3 years. The increase is due to healthier menu items developed with seafood including appetizers, salads and side dishes.
  

Shellfish Menu Trends*
Top 10 Flavors Associated with Shellfish Menu Items:

1. Garlic
2. Cajun
3. Lime
4. BBQ
5. Hot & Spicy
6. Herb
7. Lemon
8. Pepper
9. Buffalo
10. Coconut

Finfish Menu Trends*
Top 10 Flavors Associated with Finfish Menu Items:

1. Smoked
2. Cajun
3. Lemon
4. Teriyaki
5. Sesame Seed
6. Pepper (spice)
7. BBQ
8. Bourbon
9. Garlic
10. Wasabi

Coating Trends*
Top Seafood Crusts/Coatings:

1. Sesame Seed
2. Herbs
3. Spices
4. Panko Bread Crumb
5. Coconut
6. Macadamia Nut
7. Cornmeal
8. Almond
9. Potato

Source: Mintel, 2008