The Unilever Food Solution’s global Seductive Nutrition campaign for healthy and nutritious dishes that taste and look great is gaining traction in South Africa.

The campaign, now in its fourth year, was launched following a study in 10 countries where 5 000 respondents were presented with the same healthy dish described on two menus, one neutrally and the other seductively. The overwhelming preference was for the seductive description.

Craig Elliott, Unilever Food Solutions’ executive chef, says the buy-in to the campaign has been extremely encouraging.

“Healthier choices remain a leading consumer trend globally – but seldom at the expense of taste, which continues to be the leading factor in food choices. This is where Seductive Nutrition is winning fans – it’s all about taste and health.”

The latest Seductive Nutrition booklet, Edition 4, gives practical advice and guidance on developing menus to attract and entice old and new customers with healthier dishes, equal in taste, value for money, and as filling as more indulgent menu options.

“With an increasing number of people living with high blood pressure, diabetes and life-threatening diseases, people are consciously trying to make healthier lifestyle choices. Serving customers their favourite meals with higher nutritional content, without compromising on their taste experience or the appetising presentation is a responsibility that Unilever Food Solutionsis committed to assisting chefs with,” Elliott says.

The booklet also features a range of healthy, delicious and visually appealing recipes developed by Unilever Food Solutions’ chefs and nutritionists for food-service operators.

Jameela Davids of the Woolworths DC Montague Gardens catering team and her staff recently enjoyed chef training in Seductive Nutrition cooking. She says her team only uses the Seductive Nutrition menu selections and recipe books, “and our customers love the meals we provide”. Davids adds that the training has also improved cooking skills in the kitchen.