Ever since the hamburger as we know it was introduced in the early 1900s, it has been a firm consumer favorite. The increase in home cooking has created even greater demand, and consumers are now seeking new variations on the humble patty. Discover the key consumer trends that are influencing the market today and how burger processors can take advantage of the opportunities they bring.
Consumers are craving new tastes
There will always be consumers who choose the classic burger but according to Datassential’s Burger Keynote report, increasing numbers, particularly millennials, are looking for a greater variety and seeking new options and alternatives.
Consumers are craving new tastes
There will always be consumers who choose the classic burger but according to Datassential’s Burger Keynote report, increasing numbers, particularly millennials, are looking for a greater variety and seeking new options and alternatives.
And it’s not just innovative sauces, artisanal ingredients and new toppings they demand but also variation in the patty itself. Burgers everywhere tend to have the same round form but can differ greatly in bite, taste and quality. This is due to the meat mass, additional ingredients, the production process itself and cooking, which can all make or break the final eating experience.
This gives enormous potential for burger processors. It is, therefore, key to have flexible processing in terms of texture and shape so that unique burgers of high quality can be consistently produced. Discover how Marel’s burger processing solutions can help.
It’s not just about meat
Consumers are increasingly choosing alternatives to the classic 100% beef patty. Instead, they are seeking newer, more exciting burgers made from other proteins such as turkey, salmon, lamb, bison, and different types of fish. In addition, they are exploring different blends of seasonings and novel ingredients such as hybrid vegetable blends.
It will come as no surprise that the demand for alternative proteins is also booming. According to Datassential, around a third of consumers are interested in plant-based burgers.
A strong focus on the environment, the trend for meat reduction and perceived health benefits means it’s not just vegetarians and vegans who are swapping out traditional protein for the meat-free option.
To grab the opportunities this offers, processors must ensure they have the right burger processing equipment to handle different types of meat mass, including a variety of proteins, a range of fat to lean ratios and compound blends of additional ingredients.
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