Bakery Trends: Healthy Treats
Over the past few years, healthier eating habits have become a point of focus for many Americans, with organic and whole grain ingredients becoming highly sought after for shoppers across the country. The National Restaurant Association has found that 71 percent of adults are trying to eat healthier at restaurants than two years ago, but just because your customers are looking for healthy alternatives doesn’t mean they can’t still enjoy your delicious treats.
Looking to add more health-conscious alternatives to your bakery’s menu? Here are a few ideas for you to consider:
Offer Smaller Portions
Instead of only offering one size snack, provide health-conscious customers with options by developing smaller size portions of your most popular baked goods. Whether you start selling bags full of mini cookies or offer half portions of your most popular brownie, shoppers will appreciate these extra options that allow them to enjoy some of your delicious baked goods without feeling guilty.
Think Organic
With more and more consumers searching for organic food options, using organic ingredients in your baked goods can give you an edge up on your competition. We recommend reading up on USDA organic standards first, since there are certain regulations you must comply with before you can label your products as organic.
Even if you don’t make all of your baked goods organic, having an organic section on your menu can help broaden your customer base.
Provide Options
While many Americans are working to develop healthier eating habits, all of us need to enjoy some comfort food every once in a while. We recommend introducing healthier sweets to your menu slowly, without getting rid of the incredible classics you are known for around town. Healthy options are great for an afternoon treat, but you still want to show up at holiday celebrations with the pie you have enjoyed for years.
From ovens and loaders to cookie depositors and bagel slicers, Empire Bakery Equipment can help make your baking process more efficient while you try your hand at healthier bakery treats. Learn more about our bakery equipment online or by phone at 1-800-878-4070.