Bord Bia is advising food companies that printing recipes on their products will significantly enhance their appeal to consumers.
In the latest edition of its trade publication FoodAlert, Bord Bia also tells food producers that people have become more confident in their own cooking abilities, that the home-dining market will keep growing, and that more consumers are reading the small print for health and nutrition.
Bord Bia retail analyst Peter Duggan said: "The impact of the recession has had a knock-on effect on the food service industry, as the number of consumers who would have eaten out once a week or more has shrunk from 39% in 2007 to 25% in 2011.
This is leading to a resurgence in home cooking, as homemakers are using recipes and getting lessons more frequently.
"These factors are contributing towards more confidence and enjoyment within the kitchen environment.
As dining in continues to grow, the need for new and interesting meal ideas will continue to increase.
Food manufacturers can take advantage of the advanced planning involved in recipe dishes."
Mr Duggan advises food companies that including recipes on their packaging — in particular, promoting their goods in terms of value and quality — is the best route to ensuring their products make it onto people’s shopping lists.
Bord Bia surveys indicate that people are devoting an increasing degree of forethought before going shopping, with the number of Irish homemakers sourcing their recipes online growing by 13% to 35% from 2007 to 2011.
Source: irishexaminer.com
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