Mintel Publishes Food Reports

CHICAGO—Mintel, a leading market and consumer research company, published three new food reports on portion control, fine dining, and pasta and pasta-based meals. See how Americans shop and dine differently in the face of major issues like obesity, the recession and time-strapped lifestyles.

100-calorie packs a tough sell: price and size deter hungry consumers

Though weight and health are major issues in today's society, Mintel sees lagging interest in portion-controlled packaging. Only one in seven adults (14 percent) currently buy pre-measured packs, and the number one reason they do is convenience. Weight management comes second. Of people who don't buy 100-calorie packs, half say they just aren't interested. Cost is another deterrent, and a third of people say they prefer measuring out their own snacks.

Fine diners in it for the food, but women also crave intimate settings and experience

Unsurprisingly, food quality is the most important factor to fine dining patrons. But Mintel reports that women rank a leisurely experience and atmosphere nearly as high. Four in five women (80 percent) feel atmosphere is important, while 88 percent told Mintel they like not "feeling rushed." Nearly three-quarters of fine diners also place importance on food presentation and staff knowledge about food and food ingredients.

America still not tired of pasta's cheap, tasty options

From mac ‘n’ cheese to spaghetti and meatballs, Mintel's latest survey finds 92 percent of people eat pasta. One in six Americans say they're eating more pasta this year, with the number one reason being that pasta is an economical choice during challenging financial times. Nearly half of people who report eating more pasta are doing so because they just “don't get bored with pasta.”