BUSINESS
Business Amidst Pandemic The indiscriminate nature of the pandemic has impacted the health and quality of life of people, affecting the food & beverage industry adversely. Food & Beverage outlets were shut down for over a year. Though the restaurants are slowly opening their gates to diners, they not only have to follow the SOPs set by the authorities but also adopt to the changing attitude of the people as far as requirements for food are concerned. Healthy food has become a prerequisite. The restaurateurs have not only to ensure healthy food and drink but also ensure fast and hygienic delivery of food. Ashok Malkani examines how the restaurants are catering to the different needs of their customers.
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he world came to a halt over a year ago. The effect that the pandemic had on the hospitality industry is difficult to narrate. The adverse effect on the Food & Beverage industry was immense. With the easing of restrictions the F&B outlets are opening up but they have to adopt to the new needs of the diners who are now more keen on healthy food, prepared in a hygienic manner. The eating habits of the diners have changed. They have become more conscious about their health and are choosing food which is beneficial for their wellbeing. The International Food Information Council's annual Food & Health Survey has found
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that people still trust the safety of the food system and are turning more to plant protein for health. Restaurants have thus to ensure that they cater to these needs of the diners. So how are the restaurants fulfilling the desire for healthy foods of their diners? Rafi Ansari, Food & Beverage Manager, Courtyard By Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, says “Taking into account the current challenges the pandemic has thrown at us, the F&B team has curated an “Eat well” menu targeted at guests looking for healthy options. The menu includes an array of “Super Foods” such as Kale, Swiss chard, Collard greens, Turnip greens,
Hammer Food & Beverage Business Review
Spinach, Berries, Edamame Beans, Nuts and Seeds, Kefir, Salmon, Olive oil, Avocado & Sweet potato.” Rachel Goenka, CEO & Founder of The Chocolate Spoon Company Pvt. Ltd. reveals “With the ongoing pandemic we have observed a shift in consumer’s mindset and ordering patterns. While the demand for healthy and nutritious food has increased, people continue to demand food that also has a level of comfort. At our outlet, The Sassy Spoon, we have seen a surge in demand for salads at both the outposts in Mumbai, at Nariman Point as well as Powai. Since people have missed dining out we have seen a lot of our customers coming
Aug-Sept ’21
