TAG’s Top Picks from the CI & FEJ 2024 Buyers’ Guide: Part 2

At the beginning of the month, we shared Part 1 of our Top Picks from the Catering Insight and Foodservice Equipment Journal (FEJ) 2024 Buyers' Guide. Today we're back with Part 2.

The Guide showcases some of the most practical solutions currently available on the market. It covers every aspect of the commercial kitchen, from cooking equipment, refrigeration and warewashing to kitchen waste management.

Part 2 focuses on Cooking and Food Waste Management from the Guide, plus our BONUS; a product we love but didn't make the Guide!

RATIONAL iVario Pro

The iVario Pro from RATIONAL AG is an ideal cooking solution for saving space and increasing productivity.

The patented heating system boasts up to 94% energy efficiency and reduces energy consumption by 40% compared to traditional methods of cooking. Additionally, the unit helps conserve water, resulting in savings of up to 70%.

Some features include:

• Designed to replace multiple traditional appliances to save space and maximize productivity
• Ceramic heating elements and responsive pan base ensure even heat distribution, delivering consistent and efficient cooking results
• Improves ergonomics for staff by minimising operator lifting, avoiding incorrect posture, bending and also protecting from burns

Unox EVEREO

The EVEREO from Unox UK Ltd is the first hot fridge. A state-of-the-art food preservation system that features the latest in catering equipment technology.

An ideal solution for busy environments such as airports kitchens, or overnight food service such as room service, reducing the need for a dedicated chef.

Key features include:

• The EVEREO can hold dishes above the temperature where bacteria thrives, whilst maintaining the quality, texture, and taste
• MULTI.Day BAGS and MULTI.Day TRAYS allow you to Preserve cooked food at service temperature for up to 72 hours
• Reduce wait times and food waste by serving the right portion at the point of order

Convotherm Convosense

Convotherm Convosense is the markets first AI-powered combi oven that represents the future of automated food preparation. ?

The AI-powered system ensures consistent cooking results, reduces waste and improves food quality. Additionally, automation streamlines processes, saving time and increasing efficiency.

Three product highlights include:

• ConvoSense takes over manual routines automatically, meaning no manual input or time-consuming training is needed
• The highly sensitive optical sensor scans each individual load, including its precise location within the oven, and then selects the cooking program
• The fully automatic ConvoClean cleaning system handles cleaning with a minimum of manual intervention

Merrychef conneX 16

The Merrychef? conneX 16 is a cutting-edge high-speed oven that sets a new standard for cooking efficiency and versatility. Making it ideal for busy kitchens requiring quick turnaround times.

Standout features of this high speed oven include:

• Despite its small footprint, it offers the largest cavity capacity for its size
• The conneX 16 delivers food up to 80% faster than traditional cooking methods
• Built in in WiFi and Ethernet connections allow users to adjust/update menus and monitor oven performance

WE ALSO LOVE: RATIONAL iCareSystem Autodose

The iCareSystem AutoDose is a cleaning system designed by RATIONAL AG to streamline kitchen operations and ensure impeccable hygiene.

Specifically designed for compatible "table-top" iCombi Pro models, this innovative technology automates the cleaning process, saving operators time, labour, and chemicals.

We like the iCareSystem AutoDose because:

• The integrated solid cleaner system intelligently recognises the required amount of cleaning products and automatically starts the cleaning process
• Eliminates the need for manual chemical dosage measurement
• AutoDose also reduces labour costs and ensures consistent cleaning results

Vito VL

With the cost of oil continuing to remain high, it is key to invest in technologies that help to extend the life of your cooking oils.?

The Vito VL features a unique portable pressure oil filtration system that quickly and easily cleans the oil in a hygienic way. Not to mention it is suitable for use on fryers using 20 litres of oil or more.

Features include:

• An automatic cycle, integrated tilt arm and overheating protection for added safety when in use
• Capable of removing carbon and microparticles from the oil helping to reduce oil consumption by up to 50%
• The filter can be used when the oil is hot so no need to wait until service has finished

WE ALSO LOVE: Mechline GreasePak

The Mechline Developments GreasePak offers a reliable and efficient approach to managing fats, oils, and grease (FOG) within the kitchen or in any food processing facility.

By reducing long-term expenses associated with grease trap cleaning, plumbing repairs, and potential fines due to environmental violations, the GreasePak is a cost-effective investment.

Product highlights:

• GreasePak eliminates the need for manual cleaning and maintenance helping to reduce labour costs
• The solution utilizes natural bacteria to break down FOG’s, minimizing the risk of clogs and backups
• Eco-friendly approach contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible business
• We highly recommend adding the BioCeptor FOG Intercept and Treatment (F.I.T) unit which works in conjunction with the GreasePak bio-fluid dosing module!

There we have it, this year's cooking equipment and food waste management solution picks from the Catering Insight & FEJ 2024 Buyers’ Guide!

In Part 3, we will showcase our warewashing picks from undercounters, uprights and even re-useable plastic washing systems!

We’ll help you find the ideal equipment to meet your kitchen’s specific needs. Reach out today!