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groupexadmin
July 23, 2024
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Grocery shop shelves are filled with products all year round, making food availability constant. However, sometimes we forget how flavorful and nutritional seasonal produce is. We can all agree that the food’s taste and quality differ.
Chefs and foodservice operators refer to seasonal cooking as using ingredients at their harvest peak during specific times of the year. It makes a huge difference in the foodservice industry, as cooking with fresh, in-season produce enhances the flavor and nutritional value of your dishes. Data shows that 42% of customers are willing to pay more for a seasonal dish when eating out.
Seasonal produce offers numerous advantages for your dishes. First, it conserves its nutrients and flavor. Many fruits and vegetables are at their peak nutritionally when picked ripe at harvest, but transportation and storage can cause nutrient loss. Since seasonal produce spends less time in transit, it will arrive fresher in your restaurant’s kitchen.
Adding seasonal produce to your menu is a cost-saving strategy as it is more economical. Farmers harvest seasonal items in abundance, leading to lower costs, which are then passed on to you. This aspect will allow you to increase your profit margin or offer more competitive pricing to your customers.
Taking advantage of seasonality in your menu requires careful planning. It is essential to foster good relationships with reliable suppliers so they can keep you informed about available seasonal products and the best bulk pricing options.
Once you have decided which produce you will use for each season, you can start planning your seasonal specials. We understand that changing the menu every season might be challenging for some operators, so rotating seasonal items would be a better option. Labeling your dishes as seasonal can increase sales, as 59% of consumers are more likely to purchase a menu item labeled as “seasonal.”
Start incorporating seasonal ingredients today and join Groupex to access the best deals. We count on more than 300 supplier partners who can offer insights on seasonal products.
Contact us today at 1-800-670-6800 or fill out this form to learn more about our programs.
Additional Resources:
Seasonal produce calendar