Where are these current restaurant trends coming from?

Hey ya'll! My name is Debi Armbruster.  I am a graduate student at Eastern Kentucky University and have my Bachelor's in the science of Dietetics from the University of Cincinnati.  In today's world a big part of American's diet is eating out.  Huge healthy trends have been happening in our local food service industry and I am a strong advocate for the changes that have happened so far and will be happening in the up and coming future. 

The purpose of this blog is to update you on the positive healthful changes that have happened in the food service industry so far and will be happening in the near future.  Current food trends in our local restaurants are making huge strides towards having foods on their menu for people with restrictive dietary diseases, offering nutrition facts, and providing healthier options.  People are becoming more concerned about the way they are eating so restaurants are too.  Restaurants are starting to focus on healthier kids meals, gluten free diets, low sugar desserts, locally grown produce, and restaurants growing their own gardens.  At a national level we are also seeing involvement, they are wanting to help provide consumers with information to make better food choices when they are outside of their homes, as well. 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued two proposed regulations that would ensure calorie labeling on menus and menu boards in chain restaurants, retail food establishments, and vending machines with 20 or more locations.  The FDA requires that these restaurants list the calorie content of each food item next to the food on the menu, drive-thru boards, and open display cases.  A lot of these food establishments do not like the fact that they have to provide this type of information to the consumer, as they say it will take away from their business. 

For more information on the FDA food labeling regulations issued by the FDA can be found on:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/IngredientsPackagingLabeling/LabelingNutrition/ucm248732.htm

These restaurants are also seeing the change that is happening with people being more and more concerned about their health.  Restaurants guests are becoming more knowledgeable about items that are better for them and are starting to look for help for this information to be displayed on their local restaurant's menus.  These food chains and retail food establishment trends include gluten free cuisines, local sourcing, whole-grain food items, fruit and veggie side items in kid's meals, lower calorie items, lower salt items, and smaller portions for a lower price.  They are starting to think of individuals in providing gluten free items, lower salt items, and sugar free items for their consumers with restrictive dietary needs. 

There are several groups that are involved in these healthful trends, at a local and national level.  The National Restaurant Association has provided many current trends, regulations, and healthy dining resources for those who are interested in finding out more.  Also, all of the local farmer markets are trying to do their part by providing their fresh grown fruits and vegetables to these businesses.  So, not only are the consumers getting fresh produce right on their plate, the farmers are getting better business than ever before.  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration are also advocates for this specific cause.

Current Advocates:

National Restaurant Association
http://www.restaurant.org/Industry-Impact/Food-Healthy-Living/Trending-Healthy

U.S. Food and Drug Administration
http://www.fda.gov