Consumers Torn Between Good Health, Great Taste

Despite greater awareness of the benefits of eating healthy, consumers are increasingly weighing healthy, low-fat food choices against more indulgent fare. Restaurants have found that customers are rejecting healthy menu items in favor of those offering larger, higher-fat portions.

Burger King has seen success with its triple-decker "BK Stacker" burger, whereas Applebee's, Ruby Tuesday and Olive Garden have pulled "lite" items from their menus. One theory behind this demand is that people may eat healthy at home, then "treat themselves" to something they don't normally eat when they go out to restaurants.

This, however, doesn't mean that consumers aren't paying attention to their food. Restaurants are reporting an increase in vegetarian and organic selections -- though these aren't necessarily low-fat or low-calorie.

Source: Herman Group