NEW YORK – A new Mintel study suggests that Americans are struggling to find healthy choices at restaurants. As consumers look to incorporate healthier diets into their daily lives, the study found that 36% of consumers are more frequently preparing healthier foods at home instead of eating out at restaurants compared to last year, and 64% say many healthy restaurant dishes are too expensive.

Mintel suggests that one way restaurants can satisfy consumers looking to indulge is by offering healthy substitutions. Nearly half (46%) of restaurant goers are interested in more healthful side options, and 27% are already replacing unhealthy sides with healthier options compared to last year. Another one third (35%) of consumers are interested in more dishes that heavily feature vegetables.

“As Americans adopt a more holistic approach to their diets, they expect clarity from foodservice establishments,” said Caleb Bryant, foodservice analyst at Mintel. “Restaurants should offer consumers a way to indulge and also incorporate nutrition by expanding menus to include more healthy sides, while also showcasing healthful preparation methods, such as grilled instead of fried foods. This provides options for whatever mood diners are in, whether they want to eat healthy, are looking to indulge, or possibly do both.”

Health is a top priority for parents, with regard to their children and themselves. Two in five (39%) are ordering healthier food for their children more this year compared to last, and two thirds (66%) of parents would pay more for healthy foods when dining out (versus 41% of non-parents). Three in five (62%) parents agree that healthiness of menu items is the most important factor when choosing a restaurant compared to 36% of non-parents.

While parents are focused on healthy eating for their families, 88% view dining out as a treat. As such, Mintel research shows that one quarter (25%) of parents allow children to treat themselves and eat unhealthy foods when dining out.

“Kids meals are notorious for having low nutritional value, and restaurants have taken steps to add more healthful menu items for children in recent years,” Bryant continued. “But while healthy dining is very important to families, restaurants need to remember that dining out is also considered a treat by many and an opportunity to indulge, even for children. Restaurants should look to cater to [people] who want nutritious items and those looking to treat themselves.”

Another expanding area of concern for foodservice is consumer interest in better-for-you (BFY) alternatives to beverages. One quarter (23%) of Americans are ordering fewer carbonated soft drinks at restaurants compared to a year ago, and two in five (38%) agree that most soft drinks are too high in sugar. This negative perception leaves the door open for restaurants to differentiate with BFY options, as consumers would like to see more all-natural beverages (38%), more iced tea options (31%) and more flavored waters (25%).

“As soft drinks have been a major revenue stream for the restaurant industry over the years, it’s important that restaurants adapt to consumers’ better-for-you preferences. All-natural beverage options like iced teas and flavored waters offer a healthier alternative for restaurant goers while providing a chance for restaurants to tap another revenue source,” Bryant concluded.