Sodexo, a global leader in sustainable food and valued experiences, has announced the findings of its Sustainable Food Barometer. Conducted in collaboration with Toluna Harris Interactive, the study surveyed over 7,000 participants from five major countries, including over 2,000 Indian consumers. Notably, this marks the first time India has been included in the study, underscoring the country’s growing significance in the global market for sustainable and plant-based foods.
The report identifies key drivers of change and barriers to adopting sustainable eating habits, with India emerging as a leader in enthusiasm for sustainability, despite challenges.
The findings reveal a significant shift in Indian consumers’ attitudes toward sustainable eating, with several important trends emerging:
- Enthusiasm for Sustainability, Despite Inflation
Over two-thirds of Indian consumers display a strong inclination toward sustainable food consumption, outpacing developed countries in enthusiasm. However, the report notes that price remains the primary determinant for food choices, with taste ranking second and environmental concerns third. - Millennials Driving Sustainable Food Choices
Millennials (aged 25–44) are at the forefront of the sustainability movement in India, with 60% showing a commitment to sustainable practices. In contrast, Gen Z (under 25) appears less decisive regarding sustainable food adoption. - Health and Nutrition as Priorities
Beyond sustainability, health and balanced diets heavily influence Indian food choices. Nutritional value and product composition rank as the third and fourth most important factors in decision-making processes.
The Role of the Food Services Industry
The report positions the food services sector as a pivotal force in promoting sustainable eating habits. With its vast reach, this industry has the potential to inspire widespread change by integrating planet-friendly practices into daily operations.
Sambit Sahu, Managing Director of Sodexo India, emphasized the company’s role in driving this transformation, stating: “We serve over a million consumers every day, and we believe we can influence food choices by adopting and embracing the right planet-friendly practices. Our strong value proposition, combined with a commitment to safety, empowers us to set the standard and drive sustainable change in the food services industry.”
He highlighted Sodexo India’s initiatives, such as the Aarogyum brand, which focuses on health and sustainability through balanced, flavorful recipes crafted by specialized nutritionists and chefs. These efforts aim to inspire mindful and conscious eating habits across the nation.
Implications for India’s Food Consumption Trends
The findings from Sodexo’s Sustainable Food Barometer underscore India’s potential to lead in sustainable consumption, particularly in a rapidly evolving global food landscape. With increasing consumer interest and the proactive efforts of the food services industry, India is poised to reshape its food consumption patterns in alignment with environmental and health-conscious values.
