Whatever you like to cook and however you like to cook it, you’re not alone, especially if you’re in the United States.
Pork, chicken, or seafood? Coal, gas, or electricity? Whatever you like to cook and however you like to cook it, you’re not alone, especially if you’re in the United States. 80% of American families own a barbeque, a ritual that generates nearly 5 billion dollars of annual revenue. The sector seems to be utterly immune to the economic crisis, with a constant increase of 5% a year.
Currently, the most popular model is gas – which makes up 75% of the market – and luxurious, sophisticated models fitted out with every possible accessory or option are what customers seem to be looking for. Another crucial money maker, sauces and marinades for barbecues are becoming ever more popular, with a limitless variety of flavours and combinations (some quite bizarre) that can vary from State to State, according to regional tastes and culinary traditions. According to the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, 70% of all beef sold in the US is destined to be barbecued.
Even in Italy, BBQ is in fashion: four million Italians yearly enjoy cooking their meals al fresco, mostly between the months of June and August, when the sky remains light well into the dinner hour. And there are 5 thousand members of the online community.