Chicago, September 19, 2007, Business Wire – In recently-published research, Technomic foodservice consultants found significant differences in flavor preferences among consumers based on age, gender, ethnicity and region. Men, for example, like spicy flavor profiles more than women. And Asians and Hispanics are partial towards spicy foods, whereas Caucasians prefer milder flavor profiles. Among all groups, however, preference for spicy foods declines with age.

These and other findings are detailed and interpreted for restaurants in Technomic’s new Flavor Trend Category Report: Exploring Sauces, Dips and Condiments. Based on a nationwide survey of 1,500 consumers, and supplemented with Technomic’s in-depth menu and industry database, the report helps operators discover key ingredients for enhancing menu items and emerging flavor trends.

“This information should be particularly beneficial to restaurants that want to cater to their local customer base,” says Darren Tristano, Executive Vice President of Technomic Information Services. “By working in partnership with their food suppliers, operators can take this research and develop unique and innovative offerings with strong customer appeal without revamping their entire menu.”

For example, one section of the report examines sauce options for menu entrees, including hamburgers, sandwiches, Italian entrees, Mexican entrees, steak, chicken, pork and seafood. While some sauces are mainstream staples, consumers indicate a willingness to experiment with sauces that offer bold and unique flavor profiles. The report guides operators and food suppliers on which sauces are currently viewed by consumers as “everyday flavors,” “opportunity flavors,” and “ready-for-trial flavors” within each entree category.

Technomic’s new Flavor Trend Category Report: Exploring Sauces, Dips and Condiments provides extensive consumer insights on flavor preferences and attitudes, regional variations, packaging, health and nutrition, customization, and detailed menu insights. Leading flavor menu items within full- and limited-service restaurants are also presented, as well as consumer demographics and profiles by flavor clusters.

To purchase or learn more about the Flavor Trend Category Report, please visit www.foodpubs.com or contact one of the individuals listed below.

Contacts
Press Inquiries: Darren Tristano, 312-876-0004, extension 3850, or dtristano@technomic.com
Purchasing Details: Patrick Noone, 312-876-0004, extension 3852, or pnoone@technomic.com
Report Details: Sara Gillis, 312-876-0004, extension 3848, or sgillis@technomic.com

Technomic Information Services has been tracking the foodservice industry for over 40 years, providing industry intelligence, forecasts, data and training support to manufacturers, operators, distributors and others allied to the field. Our numerous publications and digital products—featuring quick-read newsletters, analytical annual reports, training handbooks, sales guides and restaurant chain profiles—help industry leaders keep a finger on the pulse of the entire foodservice terrain. Technomic Information Services delivers distinctive, premium content to its customers.

Technomic provides food and foodservice clients with the research, insights and
strategic consulting support they need to enhance their business strategies, decisions and results. Its services include category and channel analyses, customer satisfaction studies, opportunity assessments, benchmarking programs and brand equity enhancement.

Source: Technomic, Inc.
Press Contact: Chris Urban, 312-506-3929 or curban@technomic.com