Global & Regional CuisinesFood Trend Spotlight: Mediterranean Cuisine The sun-drenched Mediterranean region has legendary culinary influence, with a wide-ranging flavor palette and the health halo of high-quality fats, fresh produce, whole pulses, and grains. As culinary trends and consumer demand expand to encompass more global influences, Mediterranean cuisine is not defined by borders or ubiquitous food staples, but rather a broad blend of… Read More
Case Studies CommercialCase Study: Zoës Kitchen showcases cross-utilization of lentils as a plant-forward anchor in Mediterranean dishes December 2021 Lentils are increasingly prominent on Mediterranean fast-casual menus, as they are an approachable choice for both consumers looking for filling, plant-forward menu options and operators who need versatile ingredients that can soak up flavor and provide cross-utilization in just one SKU. The Mediterranean fast-casual chain Zoës Kitchen features lentils in several menu applications… Read More
Global & Regional CuisinesFood Trend Spotlight: Indian Cuisine Indian cuisine offers a rich map of flavor, texture, and culinary influences, from the spiced and fragrant curries of the north, to street food in urban centers, to the herbal coconut-milk based dishes of the south. A tried-and-true fit for lentils, Indian cuisine makes a strong showcase for plant-forward dishes with comforting, adventurous, and unique… Read More
Applications & PlatformsFood Trend Spotlight: Crumbles, Fillings, and Toppings and Lentils in Plant/Meat Blends For an ingredient that can increase the nutritional content of menu offerings across dayparts while making your operation more cost-effective, look no further than lentils. As a plant-forward, protein-rich substitute for ground meat, lentils are ideal in blended applications like burgers or tacos, as a substitute that can replace meat entirely in those same applications,… Read More
Yearly TrendsSpotlight on the Hottest Food Trends for 2022 November 2021 As 2021 begins to wind down, we are found reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to what is on the horizon. It is also that time of year where many food companies and data houses come out with their trend predictions for the upcoming year. We at Lentils.org love geeking out… Read More
Case Studies CommercialCase Study: CAVA highlights lentils’ versatility in globally inspired power bowls and salads November 2021 The fast-casual restaurant segment is a booming one for the lentil industry. In addition to salad-centric chains, Mediterranean cuisine is a natural fit for lentils as operators are looking to add more plant-based proteins to menus. The Mediterranean fast casual restaurant chain CAVA provides a perfect example of how lentils can shine across… Read More
Health & NutritionFood Trend Spotlight: Functional Foods & Eating for Immunity Functional foods are those that offer health benefits that extend beyond their basic nutritional value. As more consumers seek foods that promise health benefits like added energy or increased immunity, functional foods, like lentils, can help you satisfy customer demand while also delivering on taste and menu appeal. Satisfying Health Desires and Innovating on Trends… Read More
Case Studies CommercialCase Study: Fast-growing salad chain Sweetgreen features lentils in a sustainable menu item powered by plant-based protein November 2021 Sweetgreen, one of the trendiest and fastest growing fast casual chains in the U.S., has a mission to build healthier communities by connecting people to real food, so it’s no surprise that lentils are a featured item on their menu. The Super Green Goddess Salad features lentils, chickpeas, roasted sweet potatoes, raw carrots,… Read More
Operational & Labor SavingFood Trend Spotlight: Labor-Saving Techniques with Lentils With limited staff and resources, utilizing ingredients that require less labor while also providing menu versatility may seem like an impossible feat. There are some ingredients, like lentils, that can work double duty for you, making at least one thing easier in the kitchen. Below are three reasons why lentils can be your labor-saving solution.… Read More
Case StudiesSports Bars & Plant Forward Cuisine March 2021 Depending on exactly how you classify them, there are between 25-30 sports bars in the top 200 chains. This unique sub-category of casual dining anticipate a higher check percentage towards beverage sales and are a favorite among consumers in the U.S. to gather and relax with family and friends, enjoy lunch or happy… Read More
Case Studies CommercialLentils.org Partners with B.GOOD on New Mediterranean Bowl Red Lentils Star in this Nutritious, Flavorful, and Plant-Forward Option SASKATCHEWAN (Feb. 16, 2021) – Restaurant chain B.GOOD is now offering a Mediterranean Bowl in collaboration with Lentils.org in an effort to deliver a healthy menu option while diversifying lentils in the U.S. The bowl currently serves as the first lentil-based bowl option offered by… Read More
Health & NutritionNew U.S. Dietary Guidelines Highlight Lentils The new 2020-2025 U.S. dietary guidelines have been released which highlight lentils as an important nutrient-dense food to be consumed as part of protein and vegetable intake to make up a healthy dietary pattern. The latest version of the U.S. dietary guidelines were released January 2021 and introduced several changes and updates to previous guidelines.… Read More
