Washington, DC – Recent research conducted by Technomic and commissioned by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) shows beef attributes such as grass-fed, all natural, hormone-free and antibiotic-free are influencing patrons’ menu decisions. After evaluating the attitude and usage of nearly 500 foodservice professionals and the insights of about 2,000 consumers, results show beef remains a popular protein as operators seek greater value cuts and consumers look for better-for-you meal choices.
According to research findings, over half of operators serving beef indicate they are using more than three years ago and nearly 50 percent plan to increase beef on their menu within the next three years. Additionally, consumers are increasingly calling for restaurants to offer a broader array of beef dishes that are healthier and unique.
Australian exporters offer a variety of beef cuts from livestock that’s entirely grass-fed or range-fed in a healthy, natural environment, meeting operator and consumer demand. Serving as a lean center-of-the-plate protein or as a sandwich or burger, Australian beef can be creatively utilized on restaurant menus to help attract diners looking for more distinctive dishes—
• Balinese-Style Grass-Fed Beef Satay Dipper
• Duo of Grilled Natural Tenderloin with Braised Wagyu Beef
• Marinated Beef Rib Cutlet with Crisp Noodle, Carrot and Fresh Mint Salad
• T-Bone with Kipfler Potatoes
• Easy and Healthy Grass-Fed Beef Sliders
“It’s essential to keep a finger on the pulse of the industry from both a foodservice and consumer perspective,” said Elissa Garling, MLA’s North America Business Development Manager for Foodservice. “The research study confirms what customers want to see more of on a restaurant menu and how chefs can use perfectly aged Australian beef to deliver those delicious and top-selling dishes.”
For more foodservice recipes, beef cut information, instructional videos and downloadable materials, visit http://www.australian-meat.com/foodservice/.
About MLA
MLA is a rancher funded organization that invests in research and development and marketing activities for the Australian beef, sheep and goat industries. Australia is a sustainable and highly regarded producer of natural, wholesome beef, and exports to over 100 countries – making it the second largest beef exporter globally.
Source: Meat & Livestock Australia