Eco-friendly | KRG Hospitality

An AI-generated image of a sci-fi deep fryer flying at hyperspeed through space

September 19, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Innovations in Deep Frying: New Tech

Innovations in Deep Frying: New Technologies

by Nathen Dubé

If you’re deep fryer can do this, you win. At what? Everything.

Deep frying has long been a cornerstone of culinary practices, delivering crispy and flavorful dishes that delight guests, and it’s ready for innovation.

Traditional frying methods can be inefficient, costly, and environmentally unfriendly. The evolution of deep frying technology in modern kitchens has focused on addressing these issues by enhancing efficiency, reducing oil usage, and promoting sustainability.

Let’s explore the latest innovations in deep frying, focusing on oil-conserving fryers and new technologies that are transforming the industry.

Oil-Conserving Fryers and Their Benefits

Oil-conserving fryers represent a significant advancement in kitchen technology. These modern fryers are designed to reduce oil usage and operational costs while maintaining high-quality frying standards.

By optimizing the use of oil, these fryers help restaurant operators lower their expenses and minimize waste, making them an attractive option for eco-conscious businesses, and those looking to improve their bottom line.

How These Fryers Reduce Oil Usage

Oil-conserving fryers achieve their efficiency through several mechanisms.

They often feature advanced filtration systems that keep the oil cleaner for longer periods, reducing the frequency of oil changes. Efficient oil circulation methods ensure that heat is distributed evenly, which not only improves cooking consistency but also extends the oil’s usable life.

Precise temperature controls prevent the oil from overheating and breaking down, further conserving this valuable resource.

Overview of Their Role in Modern Culinary Practices

In modern culinary practices, oil-conserving fryers play a crucial role in enhancing both operational efficiency and sustainability. They allow chefs to produce high-quality fried foods with less oil, reducing costs and environmental impact.

These fryers are particularly valuable in high-volume settings such as fast-food chains, casual dining establishments, and catering operations, where oil usage is typically high.

Key Features of Modern Fryers

Advanced Filtration Systems to Maintain Oil Quality

One of the standout features of modern oil-conserving fryers is their advanced filtration systems. These systems filter out food particles and debris continuously, keeping the oil clean and extending its life.

This not only reduces waste but also ensures that the food maintains a consistent taste and texture.

Efficient Oil Circulation Methods for Consistent Cooking

Efficient oil circulation is essential for consistent cooking. Modern fryers are designed to circulate oil evenly around the food, preventing hot spots and ensuring uniform cooking.

This technology helps achieve perfect results every time, whether frying chicken, French fries, or other popular items.

Temperature Controls for Precise Frying and Energy Efficiency

Precise temperature controls are another critical feature of modern fryers. These controls allow chefs to set and maintain the exact temperature needed for different foods, ensuring optimal cooking conditions.

By preventing overheating, these controls also enhance energy efficiency, and prolong the life of the oil.

New Technologies in Deep Frying

Introduction to Low-Oil Volume Fryers and Their Advantages

Low-oil volume fryers are a recent innovation designed to use significantly less oil than traditional fryers. These fryers maintain high performance while reducing the amount of oil required, leading to lower operational costs and less waste.

They are ideal for small to medium-sized establishments looking to improve their sustainability without compromising on food quality.

The Concept and Benefits of Pressure Frying

Pressure frying is another innovative technology that has gained popularity in commercial kitchens.

This method uses a sealed environment to cook food at higher pressures and temperatures, resulting in faster cooking times, and less oil absorption. Pressure frying not only produces crispier and juicier food but also enhances energy efficiency, and reduces oil consumption.

Smart Automation: Integration of Technology for Ease of Use and Consistency

Smart automation is revolutionizing the way commercial kitchens operate. Modern fryers equipped with smart technology can automate various aspects of the frying process, from maintaining oil quality to adjusting cooking times and temperatures.

These automated systems ensure consistency, reduce the margin for human error, and free up staff to focus on other tasks.

Health and Environmental Benefits

Reduced Oil Absorption in Food for Healthier Outcomes

Innovative frying technologies contribute to healthier food by reducing oil absorption. Low-oil volume and pressure fryers, in particular, produce fried foods that are less greasy, and lower in fat.

This health benefit is increasingly important as consumers become more health-conscious, and demand healthier menu options.

Decreased Waste Generation and Its Positive Environmental Impact

Reducing oil usage and waste generation has significant environmental benefits. By extending the life of frying oil and using less of it overall, oil-conserving fryers help decrease the volume of waste oil that needs disposal.

This reduction in waste contributes to a smaller environmental footprint, and supports more sustainable kitchen practices.

The Role of Innovative Fryers in Promoting Sustainable Cooking Practices

Innovative fryers are at the forefront of promoting sustainable cooking practices. By conserving resources and minimizing waste, these technologies align with the growing trend toward sustainability in the food industry.

Restaurants that adopt these practices can not only reduce their environmental impact but also appeal to environmentally conscious guests.

Insights on the Future of Frying Technologies and Industry Trends

The future of frying technologies looks promising, with ongoing innovations aimed at further improving efficiency and sustainability.

Industry trends indicate a continued focus on reducing environmental impact and enhancing food quality, with smart automation playing an increasingly important role.

Practical Tips for Choosing and Using Fryers

Key Considerations for Selecting the Right Fryer for Your Kitchen

Choosing the right fryer for your kitchen involves several considerations, including the volume of food you need to produce, the type of food you serve, and your budget.

It’s essential to evaluate the features and capabilities of different fryers to find one that meets your specific needs.

Best Practices for Maintaining Fryers to Extend Their Lifespan and Efficiency

Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan and efficiency of your fryer.

Cleaning and filtering the oil regularly, checking and calibrating temperature controls, and performing routine inspections are all vital practices. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines will help ensure optimal performance.

Importance of Staff Training to Maximize the Benefits of New Technologies

Staff training is essential to maximize the benefits of new frying technologies.

Ensure that your kitchen staff are well trained in operating and maintaining the equipment. Regular training sessions can keep staff updated on best practices and new features, helping to improve efficiency and food quality.

Conclusion

The advantages of oil-conserving fryers and new frying technologies are clear: these innovations offer significant cost savings, improved food quality, and enhanced sustainability.

Adopting these advanced solutions make it possible for restaurants to reduce their operational costs, minimize their environmental impact, and provide healthier menu options. As the industry continues to evolve, it’s crucial for restaurant owners and chefs to stay informed about the latest technologies, and invest in equipment that supports their business goals and values.

In conclusion, adopting innovative frying technologies is not just a trend but a smart business decision. The benefits of reduced oil usage, improved efficiency, and enhanced sustainability make these technologies a valuable addition to any commercial kitchen.

By prioritizing the integration of these advanced fryers, restaurants can achieve greater success, and contribute to a healthier and more sustainable food industry.

Image: Microsoft Designer

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A young male chef preparing a dish in a clean, modern commercial kitchen

July 24, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

Top Kitchen Design Trends of 2024

Top Commercial Kitchen Design Trends of 2024

by Nathen Dubé

Commercial kitchen design continues to evolve, driven by advancements in technology, an emphasis on sustainability, and the need for efficiency and flexibility.

The latest trends reflect these priorities, offering solutions that enhance both functionality and aesthetics in professional kitchens.

This article explores the top commercial kitchen design trends of 2024, highlighting their benefits and offering practical implementation tips. Going further, I also include real-world examples of successful trend adoption.

1. Sustainability and Eco-friendly Practices

Sustainability is at the forefront of commercial kitchen design in 2024.

Restaurants and foodservice operators are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices. Key reasons include reducing their environmental footprint, and meeting consumer demand for responsible business practices.

Key Trends

Energy-efficient appliances: The use of ENERGY STAR-rated appliances that consume less energy, and reduce operational costs.
Sustainable materials: Incorporating materials like recycled steel, reclaimed wood, and eco-friendly countertops.
Waste reduction systems: Implementation of composting and recycling systems to manage waste more effectively.

Benefits

Reduce operational costs through lower energy consumption.
Enhance brand reputation by demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.
Meet regulatory requirements and green certification standards.

Implementation Tips

Choose ENERGY STAR appliances: Invest in appliances that are certified for energy efficiency to cut down on utility costs, and reduce environmental impact.
Incorporate sustainable materials: Opt for materials that are durable and have a lower environmental impact, such as recycled or reclaimed materials.
Implement waste management systems: Set up composting and recycling systems to manage kitchen waste efficiently.

Client Story

A farm-to-table restaurant I worked with revamped their kitchen to include energy-efficient appliances, reclaimed wood decor, and a comprehensive waste management system.

These changes not only reduce their operational costs but also enhance their brand’s commitment to sustainability, attracting environmentally-conscious customers.

2. Smart Kitchens and Technology Integration

Technology is transforming commercial kitchens, making them more efficient, safer, and easier to manage.

Smart kitchens equipped with advanced technology are becoming the norm in 2024.

Key Trends

Smart appliances: Ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers that can be monitored and controlled remotely.
Automated inventory systems: Systems that track inventory levels in real-time, reducing waste and ensuring timely reordering.
Kitchen management software: Software that integrates scheduling, task management, and equipment maintenance.

Benefits

Enhance operational efficiency, and reduces labor costs.
Improve food safety, and quality control.
Streamline inventory management, and reduces waste.

Implementation Tips

Invest in smart appliances: Choose appliances that offer remote monitoring and control capabilities for better efficiency and oversight.
Use automated inventory systems: Implement inventory management software to keep track of stock levels, and reduce food waste.
Adopt kitchen management software: Integrate software solutions that help manage kitchen tasks, staff schedules, and maintenance routines.

Client Story

A high-volume catering QSR company integrated smart kitchen technology, including smart ovens and automated inventory systems.

The approach allows them to monitor cooking processes remotely, optimize their inventory management, and streamline operations. The result is significant cost savings, and improvements to service quality.

3. Flexible and Modular Kitchen Designs

Flexibility and adaptability are key considerations in modern commercial kitchen design.

Modular kitchens that can be easily reconfigured to meet changing needs are becoming increasingly popular.

Key Trends

Modular equipment: Equipment that can be moved and reconfigured as needed.
Multi-functional spaces: Areas that can serve multiple purposes, such as prep stations that double as serving counters.
Open kitchen concepts: Designs that promote transparency and interaction with customers.

Benefits

Adapt to changing menu requirements and operational needs.
Maximize space utilization and efficiency.
Enhance the dining experience by promoting transparency.

Implementation Tips

Choose modular equipment: Invest in equipment that can be moved and reconfigured easily to suit different needs.
Design multi-functional spaces: Create areas that can serve multiple purposes to maximize space efficiency.
Consider open kitchen designs: Implement open kitchen concepts to enhance customer interaction and experience.

Client Story

A fast-casual restaurant redesigned their kitchen to incorporate modular equipment and multi-functional spaces. This flexibility allows the operator and their team to adapt to menu changes easily.

In addition, the change increases functional space, and streamlines their operations, leading increases in efficiency and customer satisfaction.

4. Enhanced Food Safety and Sanitation

Food safety and sanitation are paramount in commercial kitchens.

In 2024, new design trends are focusing on creating hygienic environments that minimize contamination risks.

Key Trends

Touchless technology: Faucets, dispensers, and doors that operate without physical contact.
Sanitization stations: Dedicated areas for handwashing, and sanitizing equipment.
Antimicrobial surfaces: Use of materials that resist bacteria, and are easy to clean.

Benefits

Reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Meet health and safety regulations.
Enhance the overall cleanliness of the kitchen.

Implementation Tips

Install touchless technology: Implement touchless faucets, dispensers, and entry systems to reduce contamination risks.
Create sanitization stations: Designate areas specifically for handwashing, and sanitizing tools and equipment.
Use antimicrobial surfaces: Choose materials that are resistant to bacteria, and easy to clean for work surfaces and high-touch areas.

5. Ergonomic and Worker-friendly Designs

Ergonomic designs that prioritize the well-being and efficiency of kitchen staff are gaining traction.

These designs focus on reducing physical strain, and improving workflow.

Key Trends

Ergonomic workstations: Adjustable workstations that reduce strain and fatigue.
Improved ventilation systems: Systems that provide better air quality, and reduce heat stress.
Ample lighting: Sufficient and well-placed lighting to reduce eye strain and enhance visibility.

Benefits

Increase staff productivity, and job satisfaction.
Reduce the risk of workplace injuries.
Enhance the overall efficiency of kitchen operations.

Implementation Tips

Design ergonomic workstations: Invest in adjustable workstations that can be tailored to individual needs.
Improve ventilation: Ensure your kitchen has effective ventilation to maintain air quality, and reduce heat.
Enhance lighting: Use ample and strategically placed lighting to improve visibility, and reduce strain.

Client Story

A large-scale restaurant redesigned their kitchen to include ergonomic workstations and improved ventilation.

These changes have resulted in a more comfortable and efficient working environment, leading to higher staff morale and productivity.

Address Your Kitchen’s Design

The commercial kitchen design trends of 2024 reflect a focus on sustainability, technology integration, flexibility, food safety, and ergonomics.

These trends not only enhance the functionality and efficiency of commercial kitchens but also address the growing demands for environmentally responsible and worker-friendly environments.

Are you ready to transform your commercial kitchen with these cutting-edge trends? Contact us today to learn how we can help you implement these designs and create a kitchen that meets the demands of modern culinary operations.

Image: Rene Terp via Pexels

An AI-generated image of a bee flying over seaweed, headed toward the horizon

April 22, 2024by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

2 Eco-friendly F&B Items for Earth Day

2 Eco-friendly F&B Items for Earth Day

by David Klemt

This bee is having the time of its AI-generated life, frolicking over the sea.

It’s April 22, also known as Earth Day, and with that in mind I would like to introduce you to two products that focus on sustainability.

One is replacement for the standard cooking oils we know and love. The other is a practical stand-in for traditional honey.

The topics of sustainability, environmental friendliness, and responsible business practices are multifaceted. There’s combating food waste, upgrading to energy-efficient equipment and items that use less water… And there’s sourcing ingredients.

In the case of the two products below, both aim to be made with responsible production methods. The first seeks to use just a fraction of the resources needed to produce its traditional analogs. The other focuses on habitat restoration and protecting our planet’s all-important pollinators.

Algae Cooking Club

Seaweed isn’t just for scaring the hell out of people swimming in lakes or oceans. Instead, it’s now a viable substitute for vegetable, olive, canola, and other cooking oils.

Since it’s Earth Day (and Earth Month, of course), I want operators to be aware of this environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cooking oils.

According to the Algae Cooking Club website, “Many cooking oils are still sourced from industrial farming methods, while climate change is radically reducing crop yields. An estimated 1.4 billion acres of new farmland will be needed to feed a growing world. Algae offers an exciting alternative. Instead of waiting entire seasons to harvest, algae has the potential to produce high-quality fats, proteins, and nutrients in a matter of days with a fraction of the land, water, and carbon needed, without sacrificing flavor and quality.”

Per Elisabeth Sherman, writing for Food & Wine, Algae Cooking Club can credibly claim that production of their algae oil produces just half the carbon emissions in comparison to avocado, canola, and olive oil. Oh, it’s also packaged in a recyclable aluminum bottle.

There are several seaweed- or algae-based cooking oils available. I’m focusing on Algae Cooking Club’s oil because one of the world’s best restaurants is reportedly using it moving forward.

That restaurant is Eleven Madison Park, helmed by owner and chef, Chef Daniel Humm. Not only is the restaurant one of the best, it was named the World’s Best Restaurant by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2017. Chef Humm claims that Algae Cooking Club’s oil doesn’t overpower delicate flavors, nor does it taste off or burnt.

So, if it’s good enough for one of the best restaurants and one of the best chefs in the world, it’s going to have my attention.

Mellody

I don’t want to start a debate here, but it’s important to note that there’s a dispute over whether honey is vegetarian or vegan.

On the vegetarian side of the discussion, it’s not meat or fish. Also, most people would say that bees aren’t harmed during the production of honey.

However, on the vegan side, honey is an animal product. Further, it’s a product produced by exploiting an animal. Therefore, honey can’t be vegan. And, yes, that means vegans will try to avoid consuming it.

Well, what if there existed a product that looked, tasted, cooked, and overall behaved like honey that didn’t exploit any bees? There is.

From Mellody Foods comes Mellody Plant-based Honey. Currently, there are two expressions: Golden Clover, and Spicy Habanero. Both, according to Mellody, are 1:1 matches to honey produced by bees.

The company claims that Golden Clover and Spicy Habanero tastes, drips, drizzles, and sticks like traditional honey. Each flavor is vegan, gluten- and glyphosate-free, and pollinator-friendly.

Crucially, both plant-based honeys are made using sugars, acids, and botanical extracts. Of course, Spicy Habanero includes its namesake pepper as well.

You and your culinary and bar teams can learn about Mellody here.

Takeaway

Eco-friendliness and sustainability are important values to a not-insignificant portion of the world.

It follows that a percentage of consumers seek out and want to support restaurants and bars that share their values. So, if the above products make sense for your concept, give them careful consideration.

If they’re not a fit, that’s fine. However, it’s a good idea to look into what products and practices you can embrace to become a more sustainable operator.

It’s possible you’re already greener than you think. Keep going.

Disclaimer: Neither the author nor KRG Hospitality received compensation, monetary or otherwise, in exchange for this post.

Image: Shutterstock. Disclaimer: This image was generated by an Artificial Intelligence (AI) system.

Novo Fogo Bar Strength Silver Cachaça bottle

July 9, 2021by David Klemt David Klemt No Comments

First-ever Carbon-neutral Distilled Spirit

Novo Fogo Releases First-ever Carbon-neutral Distilled Spirit

by David Klemt

Novo Fogo is releasing their Silver Cachaça in a one-liter bottle with a fresh new design, strength and trade industry focus.

Clearly, the Brazilian distiller is concentrating on bar owners and bartenders for 2021.

Of course, Novo Fogo is also focusing on their relationship with the planet.

Reducing Environmental Impact

The Novo Fogo distillery calls the Floresta Atlântica home. And the brand is fiercely protective of this location.

Also known as the Atlantic Rainforest, the distillery operates within the second-largest UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Novo Fogo’s home is pristine, surrounded by untouched nature—there’s no pollution. Operating in harmony, Novo Fogo goes to great lengths to impact their surroundings—and the planet—as little as possible.

Fans of the distillery’s handcrafted, small-batch cachaça will attest to the liquid’s terroir. Tasting Novo Fogo is like standing in Floresta Atlântica and breathing in its pristine nature.

The company is carbon negative (absorb more carbon dioxide than they emit); uses minimal water; utilizes organic production methods; and manages reforestation efforts.

World First Spirit

Novo Fogo’s mission includes a relentless, meticulous approach to saving the Amazon rainforest. The reasoning is obvious—sixty percent of Brazil is rainforest.

Also, rainforests absorb carbon dioxide; release oxygen and water into the atmosphere; are home to indigenous people; and are habitats full of animal and plant life.

So, it’s with great pride that Novo Fogo Bar Strength Silver Cachaça is the world’s first carbon-neutral distilled spirit.

This accomplishment is no small feat. To achieve this goal, Novo Fogo had to take into account the impact of their partners.

That means the brand calculated:

production of their glass bottles (recycled glass, neck wraps made from plastics found on the streets of São Paulo), corks, labels, and cases;
utilities and fuel used by their distributor’s warehouses;
the resources used by land and sea freight partners; and
the impact of sales and delivery efforts.

After calculating the entirety of Bar Strength Silver Cachaça’s impact on the Earth, Novo Fogo purchased carbon offsets through Native. The offsets will save trees by providing 2,000 families in Honduras that produce coffee with water filters. Ultimately, this will save trees as the families won’t need to cut any down to boil water.

Bar Owner and Bartender Friendly

While things are improving, it can still be cost-prohibitive for people to choose products that are good for our planet.

To that end, Novo Fogo also aims to reduce the financial impact for bar owners who purchase Bar Strength Silver Cachaça.

Per the brand, the average wholesale cost of the new one-liter expression is $24. That translates to 22 1.5-ounce pours, a cost per ounce of $0.71, and a cost per cocktail of $1.06.

However, this new expression also takes the practical into mind.

Bartenders will appreciate Novo Fogo’s new bottle design:

The neck is taller while the midsection is has been slimmed down.
Regarding the footprint, the bottom of the bottle is now circular.
Novo Fogo shrunk the bottle’s footprint.

Ultimately, the redesign results in a one-liter bottle that’s easier to handle and fits better in a well.

Of course, boosting the ABV from 40 percent to 43 percent means this cachaça’s flavors are more intense. Obviously, that makes for a bolder drinking and guest experience.

Consumers are growing increasingly concerned about the health of our planet. Many seek out brewers, vintners and distillers who operate responsibly. The same goes for the restaurants, bars and hotels they’ll support.

Novo Fogo just made it that much easier to make cocktails that are better for the planet.

Image: Novo Fogo