Equipment for fresh meals from farm to finish

Consumers are now, more than ever, aware of where and how their food is produced. Seeking foodservice operations that source locally produced, fresh, natural, sustainable foods and are “green” in their preparation practices. The “farmto- table” movement is impacting the entire food industry, from schools to restaurants. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 57 percent of consumers said the availability of local food is an important factor in deciding where to dine out. Another 68 percent said they’re more likely to visit a restaurant that offers locally produced items.

“Consumers now, more than ever, understand what “clean eating” means. For food that means no GMO’s, no hormones, fresh ingredients that come from local sources. In foodservice operations that means ensuring their facility, and specifically their kitchen, is reducing food waste, energy consumption and utilizing equipment that is environmentally friendly. This increased awareness and knowledge means every segment of the foodservice industry is adapting to ensure they stay on top of consumers new dining out mandates” explains Caitlin Rodgers, Vice President, Global Marketing. “Consumers want to feel good about their choice when dining out. As a result, our customers are taking a closer look at their menus and their equipment. For example, Panera Bread is promoting ‘clean’ food, McDonald’s is offering antibiotic-free chicken, and Taco Bell is removing artificial ingredients.”

Manitowoc Foodservice has been a leader in helping foodservice operators across the globe capitalize on this growing trend, with equipment that keeps food fresh longer and allows quick menu changes based on available local offerings. Daily, our teams put a considerable focus on the innovative technology utilized in our equipment to help operators serve food that creates opportunities in local communities, reduces harmful emissions, save energy and increases local revenue.

For example, Delfield is beginning to use R290 refrigerant, a natural hydrocarbon refrigerant that meets and/or exceed new Department of Energy (DOE) and ENERGY STAR® 3.0 standards. R290 not only reduces energy consumption, but has very little environmental impact. Our easyTouch® technology in our Merrychef® e2s, Convotherm®, Convotherm® mini, enable operators to easily change menus and recipes, based on locally available and seasonal items.