In recent years, there has been increasing growth in the interest diners and consumers are showing when it comes to the source of the food they are eating. People want to know where their food came from. Was it ethically sourced? Is it organic? Is it local or imported? The answers to these questions can often have a major impact on whether we buy the produce on offer or look elsewhere. People care about these matters and want to know the answers before they sit down to eat or make a purchase.
What is the award?
The Food For Life Served Here award, formerly known as the Catering Mark, aims to answer some of these questions and improve food transparency. It guarantees that the food on the menu in that cafe you’re dining in will meet a certain standard. With the award being a specific requirement and sign of quality for many catering contracts, having it is sure to benefit your food business. What exactly does the accolade tell consumers about your business?
Different tiers
The award has three levels: bronze, silver and gold. The bronze standard focuses on the company’s ability to deliver fresh food with a traceable source that meets certain nutritional standards. The silver and gold levels are awarded for the use of organic produce that is locally sourced and healthy. A report in Fast Company indicates that there has been a whopping 56 per cent increase in sales of organic produce since 2009, so this is clearly a major selling point for many consumers.
Who can be granted the award?
The award can be allocated to caterers of any size and has even been cited as a way to improve food in schools and hospitals. It is awarded after a full physical inspection that thoroughly investigates many of the questions consumers have about the catering supplies like those found at 247cateringsupplies.co.uk and used in dining establishments.
What are the benefits?
Ultimately, being the recipient of this award is going to promote your business in a good light. It may make for a good local news story, and it will certainly entice consumers who are passionate about meeting certain quality levels in the places where they choose to dine. This makes it a cost-effective, business-savvy pursuit.