Leaving the table with a sweet taste in the mouth is for most people, an obligation, for some, a tradition, and a few others, only a temptation.  Regardless of the frequency of consumption, desserts are a big part of the culinary experience.  Due to healthy trends and overall diet concerns, the way consumers think about desserts is changing.

However, research shows that consumers are still looking for indulgences more often than health conscious alternative solutions. Understanding the demand and providing a variety of dessert options is the key. The good news is that chefs and dessert operators are finding creative ways to answer the dilemma, proving that comprises also exist in the world of sweets.

Understanding the dilemma

Lots of people ask themselves the question: when it comes to desserts, should I treat myself with daily healthy indulgences or occasional splurges? For a lot of people, a meal is not complete – whether in a restaurant or at home – if it doesn’t include dessert. Consumers are trying to find solutions to enjoy their sweets in a way that would not compromise their resolutions to strive for a healthy lifestyle.

Many food manufacturers and retailers understand the opportunity to create low fat, low calorie options to allow their customers to indulge guilt-free. The biggest challenge is to produce products that seem indulgent but are healthier versions without sacrificing quality. The trade-off to creating healthy versions of traditional desserts can result in lesser taste and presentation, but trimmer waist lines.  However, when done right, it can be a win-win. Frozen yogurt is a great example of this as it solves consumers’ needs to indulge but with a lower caloric presentation (this doesn’t include those consumers who pile on toppings such as cookies, cereal and candies).

Consumers still seeking indulgence