In the past year, we’ve been in and out of lockdown on numerous occasions, not to mention the tier system in between, meaning restaurants and cafes have been closed for the best part of twelve months. Going out to eat was an option that was taken away from us and suddenly we had time to learn to cook.
Eating habits have changed drastically since the beginning of the pandemic. As people had more time to follow intricate recipes, there has been a more conscious approach taken to what we eat in the past year. And with take away being the only option for a night off cooking many have had a chance to explore local takeaway options, possibly finding a new cuisine.
As we move back to a sense of normality, the time has come for us to venture back out into the real world. Once you’ve put your search into Google for “lateral flow test covid buy” and ordered a stash of tests for the summer, here are a few changes you’ll notice about our eating habits since the pandemic first started.
Plant Based is Here to Stay
Having the time to properly research the benefits, to our health and the health of the planet, that a plant-based diet can have has meant that more than 66% of Brits have moved towards a more plant-focused way of eating. Statistics show that more people than ever are opting for plant-based meals, at least a few times a week.
Takeaways Are the New Eating Out
Whether due to anxiety surrounding going out, the convenience, or the fact that we’re just used to it now, takeaways have maintained their popularity throughout the pandemic, even as things began to open back up. Many have enjoyed the ease of a takeaway, and with the chance to explore new cuisines while in lockdown, it’s no wonder takeaways are still popular.
If you’re still anxious about going out to eat, remember that a lateral flow test can assure you that you’re covid-free after you have been out.
Technology is the Future
Social distancing measures meant that restaurants, cafes, and bars had to find innovative ways to reduce contact with their patrons. Apps to order food and drinks were common as the world began opening back up, and it looks like they’re here to stay. The ease of being able to order without having to flag down a server means people can spend more time socialising when they’re out.
The move toward technology has made it simpler for hospitality venues too. With a focal point for orders and an easy system for ordering and delivering the items to the table, apps look here to stay post-pandemic.
Creativity in Menus
As the entire world implemented Covid-19 restrictions, suddenly it became more difficult to source regular produce across the UK, meaning that venues had to innovate with the ingredients they could get their hands on. Pair this with the UK finalising Brexit during the pandemic and now businesses are going to have to get creative as usual produce delivery is changed.
The pandemic saw hospitality venues change their menus dramatically. Reducing the size of menus meant that businesses could still offer a variety but that they weren’t wasting food, and they really got to understand what customers wanted.
Now that we’re almost out the other side of the pandemic, it seems likely that venues will use what they have learned during recent upheavals to change the way they run. Sourcing locally may reduce costs and ensure produce can be acquired easily, while also supporting local growers. Additionally, relying on overseas ingredients may now lead to delays due to customs changes since the UK left the EU. It appears that the only answer is for venues to behave much more progressively, and adapt to survive after the pandemic.
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