Consumers are seeking new avenues to access convenient fast food — and not just at fast food restaurants, but everywhere including home.

According to Technomic, fast food is no longer confined to quick service, drive-thru restaurants and convenience stores. A dual concept has emerged consisting of traditional fast food and "food fast," served quickly with an emphasis on flavor, quality and ambiance. More than 40 percent of consumers say "fast food" includes fast-casual and full-service restaurants offering carryout, and more than half want meals delivered in five minutes.

Restaurants are making mealtimes easier, especially for 25-to-34 year olds who work full time or have young children. Nearly half of theses consumers say they have dined at casual restaurants because they’re too tired to cook, and 40 percent have no time to do so, according to Mintel.

"Fast food" is also crossing over into home-prepared meals that help consumers put food on the table, fast. According to Mintel, the side dish category was one of the few food and drink categories that increased in 2009 — likely due to more people eating in and the launch of products that offer convenient solutions, such as vegetable steam bags.

One indicator of today’s fast cooking: a heightened interest in small kitchen electrics. The New York Times reported sales in the $3.8 billion category were up almost nine percent while housewares including pots and pans were down 11.5 percent. According to the article, “We are a nation that cooks with an index finger” as Americans seek kitchen electrics that with just one touch, will brown toast and poach an egg at the same time.

As fast food evolves, opportunities for food manufacturers will also evolve to include more foods that consumers can prepare even more easily — and faster.

Sources:
  • Technomic, "Consumers are Expanding Their Definition of Fast Food, Reports, Technomic," January 12, 2010, press release, www.technomic.com
  • Mintel, "Convenience Still Top Order for Young Diners," January 27, 2010, press release, www.mintel.com
  • Mintel, "Food & Drink Product Launches Decline During 2009 Recession," January 26, 2010, press release, www.mintel.com
  • New York Times, "Fast-Food Mentality Enters the Home," Wednesday, March 17, 2010
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