Chef Works has recently published an extremely informative infographic about the different types of lunches there are worldwide and their origins. Lunch began as a woman's meal in the 18th century as a snack between meals.
In the infographic, Japan is known for their bento boxes that consist of rice, fish and several other dishes. Lunch in South Africa features Bobotie, a beef or lamb potpie containing raisins, apples, almonds and curry powder, with seafood as an important component in their diet. In Brazil, lunch starts a little earlier than standard time and is the biggest meal of the day consisting of rice, beans and salad. Lunch in Spain is the biggest meal of the day. Lasting around 3 hour long, dishes could include tapas, paella, soups, salads or roasted chicken. Finally, a typical American Lunch are various combinations of salads, soups and sandwiches, and is typically the lighter party of daily meals.
Global Lunch Infographics
The Lunch Chart Shows Worldwide Lunch Habits
Trend Themes
1. Global Lunch Habits - The increasing popularity of international lunch dishes reflects a need for more diversified menus in the restaurant industry.
2. Bento Box Lunches - The rising interest in bento box lunches presents an opportunity for food manufacturers to create pre-packaged, healthy lunch options for busy professionals.
3. Lunch as a Main Meal - The trend of making lunch the largest meal of the day creates an opportunity for restaurants to offer more substantial lunch options that are still affordable.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - Restaurants, cafes, and food manufacturers can benefit from incorporating international lunch dishes, bento boxes, and heartier lunch options into their menus and product offerings.
2. Tourism and Travel - Hotels and travel destinations can enhance their guest experience by offering international lunch options and promoting local lunch traditions.
3. Office and Remote Work - The increasing popularity of bento box lunches and heartier lunch options presents an opportunity for delivery services and meal kit companies to cater to busy professionals who want convenient and healthy lunch options.