Purpose – This study analyzes the nutritional quality of foods and beverages offered in hotel breakfast buffets in Balneário Camboriú/SC, with emphasis on the presence of ultra-processed foods and the availability of items intended for diets with dietary restrictions.
Design/methodology/approach – This case study adopts a qualitative and descriptive approach, based on systematic visual observation of the buffets and semi-structured interviews with professionals responsible for the breakfast service in the selected hotels. The hotels were selected through the TripAdvisor® platform.
Findings – The results indicate a predominance of ultra-processed foods, limited availability of fresh or minimally processed items, and very few gluten-free, lactose-free, or sugar-free options. Additional weaknesses were identified regarding food labeling and the absence of allergen information.
Practical implications – The findings reinforce the need to revise hotel breakfast menus to promote healthier and more inclusive food practices.
Originality/value – This study contributes to advancing discussions on nutritional quality in the hospitality sector and on food inclusion for guests with dietary restrictions.
Research limitations – The study was conducted in hotels located in a single Brazilian tourist destination, limiting the generalizability of the results.
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Turismo: Visão e Ação, linked to the Graduate Program in Tourism and Hospitality - Master's and Ph.D., is a scientific journal published in a continuous flow system, with an interdisciplinary and international scope. According to Qualis/CAPES criteria (2021-2024), it is classified as 'A4' in the fields of Administration, Accounting Sciences, and Tourism. Registered with ISSN number 1983-7151, Tourismo: Visão e Ação began its activities in 1998 with printed publications in English and Portuguese. In 2008, it transitioned to an online publication, expanding its reach to a broader audience. It maintains a policy of being an open-access journal without submission or access fees. The abbreviated title for the journal is Tur., Visão e Ação, commonly used in bibliographies, footnotes, references, and bibliographic captions.
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