Recent research indicates that the way hotel menus are designed can significantly impact guests’ food choices, particularly when it comes to selecting vegetarian dishes.
This approach not only promotes healthier eating habits but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions associated with meat production.
Behavioural interventions outperform cognitive strategies
A study conducted across two hotels involved 647 participants and tested various menu designs to encourage vegetarian selections.
The findings revealed that behavioural interventions, which altered the menu’s structure to highlight vegetarian options, were more effective than cognitive strategies that provided information about the popularity of vegetarian choices.
Guests presented with menus where vegetarian dishes were prominently featured were significantly more likely to choose them.
Simple menu adjustments lead to substantial environmental benefits
Implementing straightforward changes, such as placing vegetarian options at the beginning of the menu or dedicating a section exclusively to plant-based dishes, can lead to a notable increase in their selection.
This shift not only benefits individual health but also has a positive environmental impact by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with meat consumption.
Nudging guests towards plant-based options
Incorporating behavioural “nudges” into menu design has proven effective in influencing dining choices. For instance, presenting vegetarian dishes as the default option or enhancing their visibility on the menu can encourage guests to opt for these more sustainable choices without restricting their freedom.
Such strategies align with the growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly options and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions associated with food choices.
By thoughtfully designing menus, hotels can play a pivotal role in guiding guests toward more sustainable dining decisions, thereby enhancing guest experience and contributing to environmental conservation efforts
