First Quarter 2019 Restaurant Trends
It sounds like something from a science fiction movie: a juicy steak grown in a lab and served in a restaurant. But that science fiction story is quickly becoming a restaurant reality. Also known as “motherless meat”, it’s likely to be one of the hottest trends in the restaurant business.
Why Are Some Restaurants Choosing Motherless Meat?
It’s sustainable.
Your customers care about sustainability now more than ever. They want to feel good about the food they consume, and because of that, meat is problematic. Traditional meats contribute to global warming, may not be ethically sourced, and put a massive strain on natural resources. Lab-grown meat can be produced without the ethical issues and don’t place the same demands on resources. Sustainable meats are appealing to potential customers, making them appealing to restaurant owners who want to increase their numbers.
It’s cheap.
Fast Company reports that the first lab-grown burger cost $325,000. Just two years later, though, that same burger could be produced for $11. The price continues to spiral downwards. Ultimately, companies are hoping to produce a pound of burger in the lab for less than $5. How is it getting so inexpensive? As the process of creating the product is perfected, the cost goes down. Additionally, there are no costs associated with breeding, feeding, slaughtering or processing the meat. It’s made ready-to-cook. Those low costs could mean better profit margins for restaurants, too.
It could be healthier.
According to British news source The Telegraph, some lab-grown meat producers are using plant-based substitutes to create their meat substitute. The finished product looks and tastes like the real thing, but doesn’t have the same health risks associated with it. Consumption of too much red meat is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious medical concerns. Switching to a meatless substitute that can fool a steak lover could be key in a meatless revolution.
What Are Your Thoughts On This New Trend?
The food service industry is an especially competitive one. Is your restaurant staying ahead of the competition? If you aren’t sure how to meet the demands of today’s consumer or you don’t know how to keep ahead of the trends, we can help. Contact TRG today to speak with our experienced, passionate restaurant consultants. We help both new and existing restaurants discover new ways to thrive.
