Heritage, Tradition Drive Hispanics' Protein Choices

CHICAGOTradition and heritage are driving U.S. Hispanic meal time choices including protein sources, with Hispanics consuming chicken, legumes, eggs and fish or seafood more frequently than non-Hispanics, according to market data from the NPD Group.

NPD's NET® (National Eating Trends®) Hispanic research found that these foods have maintained a similar level of importance among Hispanics compared to five years ago, except legumes that have somewhat declined. Foods and beverages served in U.S. Hispanic households are the result of family tradition and national cuisine carried from origins in Spain, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba and other Spanish-speaking countries in the Caribbean and Central, Latin and South America.

NPD's research shows chicken and beans are proteins that U.S. Hispanics say are some of the top foods reflecting their Hispanic heritage with chicken being the main dish for in-home dinner meals and included in more afternoon meals compared to non-Hispanics.

Although, U.S. Hispanics have preferences in protein, they do consume beef and yogurt at a similar rate as non-Hispanics. Beef is declining in importance among Hispanics and yogurt growing, compared to five years ago.

Research also shows Hispanics less frequently consume cheese, peanut butter, turkey, nuts and seeds compared to non-Hispanics.

"Understanding which product categories appeal to each Hispanic consumer group will be critical to effectively connecting with these consumers and understanding the situations and motivations that drive category consumption will enable food companies to influence future sales to these groups," said Darren Seifer, NPD food and beverage industry analyst.