Frequently Asked Questions

Review the following frequently asked questions to assist you in using Menu Analysis.

Menu Management

What is menu analysis?

Performing a menu analysis breaks down a recipe's total food cost by products and ingredient units of measure to help understand what is contributing to menu item profitability.

Can I place an order from the menu analysis application?

Yes. You can convert a menu into an open order. This process creates an open order in Order Management that you can edit and submit. A confirmation number displays in the Menu Analysis application.

I am not getting any costs associated with my choice of products. What should I do?

Make sure that you have indicated a quantity. The menu analysis application does not display cost without an associated quantity. Also, ensure that the volume, weight, and portion fields have values or else the application will not calculate.

What does it mean when I see a Food Cost Alert icon?

The Food Cost Alert icon indicates that your recipe has exceeded the amount that you set for your target food cost % and will result in a reduced profit.

What is the difference between a recipe analysis and a profitability analysis?

A profitability analysis shows you cost breakdowns and profit margins. A recipe analysis is a what-if scenario that allows you to substitute alternate products to reduce cost and compare recipes side by side.

Do I have to start from scratch each time I add a recipe or can I leverage other recipes and menus?

No. You can copy a recipe and modify it to meet your current needs.

System Access

How do I access the menu analysis application?

You can access the menu analysis application through Sysco Market using the following path Manage My Business > Tools > Menu Analysis or from within Express Ordering under the Menu Analysis tab.

Whom do I call for help with the Menu Analysis application?

Contact your Sales Associate tor Sysco Business Services for help 1-800-SYSCO CS.

Plate Management

Is there a way to block the application from updating prices for certain products?

Yes, select the lock price checkbox next to the product. This selection locks the current price and does not change it during the next update.

How does the application account for product yields?

You have the ability to indicate yield amount of a product as well as add waste and labor costs to ensure an accurate analysis.

How do I scale a plate?

To scale a plate, select the scale checkbox next to the plate products and ingredients. Then, type in the desired number of servings.

What is the difference between a product and a custom ingredient?

Sysco offers products while custom ingredients are not purchased from Sysco.

When I search for a product I get too many results. How can I get a more manageable list just for the items I need?

You can use the product search filters to narrow your search results by brand, pack, size, category, storage, and stock indicator.