Recent research finds that the next generation of the American family is more ethnically diverse, cash-strapped, cuisine-savvy, and health-concerned than ever before. An article in the January issue of Food Technology magazine identifies new culinary, health, and restaurant behaviors shaping the food choices of tomorrow’s family.

These new food trends in the American family include:

*The more children there are in a household, the more likely its members are to cook at home, use prepackaged convenience foods and cut back on restaurant visits.
*Gen X (ages 35-44) and Gen Y (ages 18-34) parents are an integral part of today’s foodie movement and have a penchant for freshness, cleaner labels and minimally processed foods.
*A third of all families with children have income less than twice the federal poverty line, meaning that affordable family meals are in great demand.
*For the majority of American families, the evening meal is not prepared at home an average of five times per week.
*Parents’ wish list for children’s snacks includes more nutrients, controlled portion sizes, fresh, lower fat, and lower calories.
*Six out of 10 families are practicing some form of healthy eating strategy, such as eating more fruits/vegetables, whole grain, and low fat dairy; limiting […]