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From pizza delivery to robotic grills: US fast-food chains embrace automation to boost speed

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automation
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From robotic grills to faster blenders with custom ice and milk dispensers, major US restaurant chains like Starbucks, Domino’s, and Chipotle are embracing cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize their production processes. The integration of automation in their operations not only aims to streamline production but also to significantly reduce labor costs, opening up the potential for improved profit margins. These advancements mark a significant step forward in the food industry, as they promise increased efficiency and innovation while maintaining the quality and consistency customers expect.

Starbucks has announced its ambitious plan to introduce the Siren System, a state-of-the-art coffee-making machine, in approximately 10% of its stores from next year onwards. According to Starbucks, this cutting-edge system will enable baristas to craft beverages with greater efficiency, significantly reducing preparation time and complexity. For instance, a grande mocha frappuccino can now be prepared in just 36 seconds, compared to the previous 87 seconds when made using traditional methods. This advancement promises to streamline operations and enhance the overall customer experience at Starbucks locations equipped with the Siren System.

Amidst the pandemic-induced scarcity of affordable labor, restaurant chains made a strategic shift towards investing in technology solutions for their kitchens, effectively bridging the gap. Embracing automation tools has emerged as a key strategy to reduce wait times significantly, leading to increased consumer satisfaction and heightened sales throughout the year, as stated by restaurant executives. These technological advancements not only address the labor challenges but also enhance overall operational efficiency, ensuring a seamless and satisfying dining experience for customers.

According to Starbucks’ Chief Financial Officer, Rachel Ruggeri, the coffee chain foresees a future with a more stable production environment. This vision is expected to play a crucial role in driving margin expansion for the company in the long term. By enhancing production efficiency and streamlining operations, Starbucks aims to create a sustainable and profitable growth trajectory for the future.

In a report published by the National Restaurant Association in February, it was revealed that approximately 58 percent of restaurant operators foresee a rising trend in the adoption of automation and technology to tackle labor shortages this year. This indicates a significant shift towards integrating innovative solutions to streamline operations and overcome the challenges posed by the scarcity of labor in the restaurant industry. As automation gains prominence, it is poised to become an increasingly prevalent approach for managing workforce limitations and ensuring sustained growth and efficiency for restaurants across the country.

According to a survey conducted by HungerRush in May, 36 percent of 1,000 U.S. respondents expressed their belief that major restaurant chains face staffing shortages, affecting their ability to efficiently take orders, prepare food, and manage deliveries. This perception highlights the significant impact of labor challenges on the restaurant industry, raising concerns about the overall service quality and customer experience provided by these establishments.

“Now most consumers expect their local pizza place and their favorite coffee house to remember their last order, know what credit card they want to use, and make it quick and easy for them to complete an order,” said Aaron Nilsson, chief information officer of Jet Pizza, a Michigan-based chain that recently launched an AI-powered phone bot for taking pizza orders. “Society has moved on and automation is expected – even from the small-time operator.”

In July, Chipotle unveiled a cutting-edge robotic prototype designed to efficiently cut and peel avocados, resulting in a remarkable 50% reduction in preparation time. This innovation is aimed at assisting employees in preparing orders more rapidly and enhancing overall operational efficiency. Additionally, the Colorado-based chain implemented a dual-sided grill in ten high-volume locations, which can cook food 70% faster compared to the average employee. Chipotle’s CEO, Brian Niccol, shared these advancements during an earnings call last week, emphasizing the company’s commitment to embracing technology to optimize their kitchen processes and elevate customer service.

Over the past few years, Domino’s has been at the forefront of various automation initiatives. In 2021, the company introduced a pizza delivery robot car in specific stores within its Houston locations, revolutionizing the delivery process. In another remarkable move, Domino’s Pizza Enterprises, last year, collaborated with Picnic Works, a Seattle-based food-automation startup, to unveil an automated pizza preparation device. These advancements showcase Domino’s dedication to incorporating cutting-edge technology into its operations, ultimately enhancing efficiency and customer experience.

In a further display of their commitment to automation and innovation, Domino’s recently established an automated supply chain center in Indiana. Equipped with state-of-the-art machines capable of producing batches of dough, this center began its operations in March. Its strategic location allows it to efficiently service Domino’s shops across Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin. By leveraging cutting-edge technology in their supply chain operations, Domino’s aims to ensure a consistent and seamless experience for their customers while optimizing their production processes.

“Anytime there’s new automation, it creates new kinds of jobs,” said Gaurav Kachhawa, chief product officer at Gupshup, a conversational messaging platform. “It’s not going to be net shrinking. I think it’s going to be expanding the overall economy and its efficiency.”

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Fry It the Smart Way! Learn How to Make Fried Food That’s Good for You!

Fried Food healthy

Fried food is often associated with indulgence and guilt, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few simple changes to your frying technique and ingredient choices, you can enjoy delicious fried dishes that are also good for your health. In this guide, we will explore the smart way to fry food, focusing on healthier oils, proper frying temperatures, and clever cooking methods to reduce oil absorption. So, put on your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to embark on a journey of guilt-free fried delights!

1. Choose the Right Oil:

The first step to making healthier fried food is selecting the right oil. Avoid using oils high in unhealthy saturated fats or trans fats, such as lard or hydrogenated oils. Instead, opt for oils rich in beneficial monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Some excellent choices include olive oil, avocado oil, canola oil, and peanut oil. These oils have a higher smoke point, making them ideal for frying without breaking down into harmful compounds.

Additionally, consider blending oils to create a unique flavor profile while boosting the nutritional value. For example, mix olive oil with sesame oil for a rich, nutty taste, or combine coconut oil with grapeseed oil for a tropical twist.

2. Maintain the Right Temperature:

Proper frying temperature is crucial to achieve crispy and healthy results. If the oil is not hot enough, the food will absorb excess oil and become greasy. On the other hand, if the oil is too hot, it can break down and release harmful substances.

Use a deep-frying thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and keep it around 350°F (175°C) for most foods. This temperature ensures that the food cooks quickly, forming a protective crust while minimizing oil absorption.

3. The Secret of Coatings:

Achieving the perfect crispy texture is possible without drenching the food in batter or heavy coatings. Opt for lighter alternatives like whole-grain breadcrumbs, crushed nuts, or panko flakes. These coatings not only provide a satisfying crunch but also introduce added nutritional benefits, such as fiber and essential nutrients.

4. Embrace Air Frying:

Air frying is an innovative technique that reduces the amount of oil needed to cook fried food. Using hot air circulation, air fryers create a crispy exterior without submerging the food in oil. They can be used for a wide range of dishes, from French fries to chicken wings and even desserts like apple chips.

5. Monitor Cooking Time:

Properly timing the frying process is essential. Overcooking can lead to a loss of nutrients and make the food less healthy. Set a timer to avoid overcooking and check for a golden-brown color to indicate readiness.

Final Thoughts:

Frying food the smart way allows you to indulge in your favorite dishes without compromising your health. Choosing the right oil, maintaining the correct temperature, and using lighter coatings all contribute to a healthier, delicious fried meal. Additionally, air frying presents a convenient and oil-saving alternative for those looking to cut down on unhealthy fats. So, whether you’re craving crispy chicken tenders or crunchy vegetable tempura, you now have the knowledge and techniques to make fried food that’s good for you. Happy frying!

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Too Much Heat? Cool Down with These Miracle Foods After Eating Spicy!

Spicy food cool down

Spicy foods can add a burst of flavor and excitement to our meals, but they can also leave our taste buds and digestive system in flames. The burning sensation caused by capsaicin, the active compound in chili peppers, can be overwhelming for some individuals. Fortunately, there are several miracle foods that can come to the rescue and cool down the heat after indulging in spicy delights. In this article, we will explore these cooling remedies that help alleviate the fiery aftermath of consuming spicy foods.

1. The Refreshing Power of Cucumbers

Cucumbers are not only refreshing but also effective at reducing the heat from spicy foods. They are high in water content, which aids in rehydrating the body after the consumption of spicy meals. Additionally, cucumbers contain enzymes that can neutralize the fiery compounds found in spicy dishes, providing instant relief from the burning sensation.

2. Soothing Yogurt and Dairy Products

Yogurt is a staple in many cultures as a cooling agent for spicy dishes. The probiotics present in yogurt help restore the balance of gut bacteria, reducing discomfort caused by spicy foods. The cooling effect of dairy products like milk and buttermilk also helps soothe the burning sensation. A lassi, a traditional yogurt-based drink, is a popular choice in India to accompany spicy meals.

3. Zesty Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and oranges, offer a refreshing dose of vitamin C and citric acid that counteracts the spiciness of certain dishes. The tangy flavor helps neutralize the heat, providing instant relief. Squeezing a bit of lemon or lime juice over your spicy meal can enhance the taste while simultaneously cooling it down.

4. Nature’s Antacid: Bananas

Bananas, known for their natural antacid properties, are an excellent choice to alleviate heartburn and discomfort after eating spicy foods. They create a protective barrier in the stomach, preventing excessive acid production and offering a soothing effect to the digestive system.

5. Cools Down with Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a common ingredient in spicy cuisines like Thai and Indian. Its creamy texture and high-fat content help to neutralize the heat from spicy dishes. The lauric acid in coconut milk has antimicrobial properties that can also aid in digestion.

6. Marvelous Mint

Mint, whether in the form of fresh leaves or mint-infused beverages, is an excellent remedy for cooling down the effects of spicy foods. Mint contains menthol, which creates a soothing sensation, counteracting the burning sensation caused by capsaicin. It also aids digestion, making it an ideal choice after a spicy feast.

7. Sweet Relief: Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener with anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the irritation caused by spicy foods. Consuming honey after a spicy meal can provide instant relief and balance out the fiery flavors.

8. Plain Bread or Rice

When in doubt, turn to simple carbohydrates like plain bread or rice to dilute the spiciness of a dish. These foods absorb and neutralize the capsaicin, providing a milder taste and easing the discomfort caused by consuming spicy foods.

9. Hydrating Watermelon

Watermelon is a hydrating and refreshing fruit that can help cool down the body after a spicy meal. Its high water content aids in rehydration, while the sweetness of the fruit balances the heat of the spices.

Final Thoughts:

Indulging in spicy foods can be an enjoyable experience, but the aftermath of the heat can be overwhelming for some individuals. Luckily, nature has provided us with an array of miracle foods that can come to the rescue and help us cool down after eating spicy. From cucumbers and yogurt to citrus fruits and mint, these cooling remedies offer relief from the burning sensation and soothe the digestive system. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for a glass of water after a spicy meal, consider trying one of these miracle foods to tame the heat and make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

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Discover the Ultimate Beer Lover’s Hack: How the Right Glassware Elevates Your Brew to a Whole New Level!

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beer glass
Beer (Representative Image)

Beer is more than just a beverage; it’s an art form. For beer enthusiasts, each brew holds a unique combination of flavors and aromas that deserve to be experienced to the fullest. One often overlooked aspect that significantly impacts the beer-drinking experience is the choice of glassware. The right glassware can elevate a beer, unlocking its full potential and enhancing its taste, aroma, and overall enjoyment. In this article, we will explore how the appropriate glassware can transform your beer-drinking experience, giving you the ultimate beer lover’s hack.

1. The Role of Glassware in Beer Appreciation:

The first sip of beer is a moment of anticipation and excitement. However, the glassware you choose to pour it into can significantly impact your experience. The shape, size, and material of the glass influence how the beer interacts with the atmosphere and your senses. Proper glassware is designed to enhance the beer’s aroma, appearance, and flavor profile, making it a vital aspect of beer appreciation.

2. Enhancing Aroma:

The aroma of beer plays a crucial role in its overall taste experience. Certain beer styles, such as IPAs, stouts, and wheat beers, rely heavily on their aromatic qualities. A tulip-shaped glass, with its narrow top and flared body, concentrates the beer’s aroma, allowing you to fully appreciate its bouquet. This glass is ideal for hop-forward beers, as it captures the delicate and complex hop aromas, making every sniff a delightful experience.

3. Showcasing Appearance:

The visual presentation of beer can significantly impact the overall enjoyment. The right glassware can showcase the beer’s color, carbonation, and head retention. A Pilsner glass, with its tall and slender design, is perfect for light-colored beers like Pilsners and lagers. The elongated shape highlights the beer’s clarity and effervescence, enhancing the visual appeal and creating a visually inviting experience.

4. Maximizing Flavor:

Different beer styles have unique flavor profiles that can be enhanced by the appropriate glassware. For example, a snifter glass is tailored for strong and complex beers like imperial stouts and barleywines. Its wide bowl and narrow mouth allow you to swirl the beer gently, releasing volatiles and intensifying the aroma. The small opening also directs the beer to the front of your palate, accentuating its rich flavors.

5. Temperature Management:

The material of the glass can impact the beer’s temperature, which is essential for specific beer styles. For instance, a thick-walled glass can insulate the beer, keeping it colder for longer, making it ideal for refreshing beers like lagers. Conversely, a thin-walled glass can showcase the complexities of craft beers by allowing them to warm up slightly as you hold the glass, revealing new flavors and nuances.

6. The Role of Stemware:

Stemmed glassware, such as goblets and chalices, is ideal for beers with higher alcohol content, such as Belgian ales and Trappist beers. The stem prevents body heat from transferring to the beer, maintaining a stable temperature and preserving its flavor. Additionally, the wide bowl of a goblet allows for a generous head, promoting aroma release while offering a sophisticated presentation.

7. Proper Glass Cleaning and Maintenance:

To fully enjoy the benefits of the right glassware, proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial. Beer glasses should be cleaned thoroughly after each use, preferably by hand and without using harsh detergents. Residual soap or other contaminants can affect the beer’s flavor and aroma. Additionally, storing glassware in a dust-free environment ensures that no unwanted particles interfere with your beer-tasting experience.

Final Thoughts:

As a beer lover, your journey to explore the vast world of beer is incomplete without the right glassware. Choosing the appropriate glass for each beer style enhances the sensory experience, elevating your brew to a whole new level of enjoyment. From enhancing aroma and showcasing appearance to maximizing flavor and managing temperature, the right glassware brings out the best in your favorite beers. So, next time you pour yourself a cold one, remember to pick the perfect glassware and savor every sip like a true connoisseur. Cheers to the ultimate beer lover’s hack!

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Bowl of Happiness: Discover the 10 Most Satisfying Thukpas in Delhi-NCR!

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Thukpa restaurants

Delhi-NCR, the vibrant metropolitan region of India, is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings. Amidst the plethora of mouthwatering dishes, the humble and comforting thukpa has found a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts. This Tibetan-origin soup is a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and spices that warms both body and soul, making it the perfect bowl of happiness. In this article, we embark on a gastronomic journey to explore the ten most satisfying thukpas in Delhi-NCR, where food lovers can savor this heavenly delight.

1. The Tibetan Monastery Café, Majnu ka Tilla:

Our culinary expedition begins at Majnu ka Tilla, a Tibetan settlement that has preserved its rich culture and authentic flavors. The Tibetan Monastery Café, situated amidst this quaint locality, serves an impeccable bowl of thukpa. Prepared with love and finesse, their thukpa boasts tender noodles, succulent chunks of chicken or vegetables, and a flavorful broth that tantalizes taste buds.

2. Ama Cafe, Majnu ka Tilla:

Next on our list is Ama Cafe, another gem nestled in Majnu ka Tilla. This charming café offers a delightful twist to the traditional thukpa by adding a fusion of aromatic herbs and spices. From classic vegetable thukpa to indulgent chicken or pork thukpa, Ama Cafe caters to every discerning palate.

3. Yeti – The Himalayan Kitchen, Hauz Khas Village:

Moving away from Majnu ka Tilla, we venture to Hauz Khas Village, a bohemian neighborhood that houses Yeti – The Himalayan Kitchen. This restaurant serves up an authentic Himalayan experience with its scrumptious thukpa, transporting patrons to the misty mountains of Tibet and Nepal. With a soul-soothing broth and generous servings of meat and vegetables, their thukpa is a must-try.

4. Tee Dee, Majnu ka Tilla:

Back to Majnu ka Tilla, we stumble upon Tee Dee, a cozy little eatery renowned for its delectable thukpa. The chefs at Tee Dee craft each bowl with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the flavors are a burst of blissful satisfaction. Their mutton thukpa and vegetarian variants are highly recommended.

5. Yeti – The Himalayan Kitchen, Greater Kailash:

Yeti – The Himalayan Kitchen makes its second appearance on our list, this time at Greater Kailash. With a similar dedication to authenticity, their second outlet offers a unique variety of thukpas, including yarsagumba thukpa, a delicacy enriched with the Himalayan caterpillar fungus, known for its medicinal properties.

6. Dolma House, Lajpat Nagar:

Venturing into Lajpat Nagar, we discover Dolma House, a hidden gem serving delectable Tibetan cuisine. Their thukpa is nothing short of perfection, offering a delightful harmony of flavors that leaves patrons yearning for more. The serene ambiance of the restaurant adds to the overall dining experience.

7. Cafeteria & Co., Hudson Lane:

Amidst the bustling lanes of Hudson Lane in North Delhi, Cafeteria & Co. stands out for its lip-smacking thukpa. Blending traditional Tibetan flavors with modern culinary techniques, their thukpa has garnered a loyal following among students and food enthusiasts alike.

8. Chimi Lhakhang, Kamla Nagar:

In the heart of Kamla Nagar, Chimi Lhakhang is a charming restaurant that prides itself on serving authentic Tibetan cuisine. Their thukpa is an absolute delight, brimming with wholesome goodness and heartwarming flavors that remind visitors of the mountains far away.

9. Carpe Diem, Majnu ka Tilla:

Returning to Majnu ka Tilla, we find Carpe Diem, a quaint café that offers an inviting ambiance and a range of mouthwatering thukpas. Whether you prefer the classic chicken or the comforting vegetable variant, Carpe Diem ensures that each bowl is a slice of culinary bliss.

10. Gangjong Kitchen, Lajpat Nagar:

Our final destination on this delightful journey is Gangjong Kitchen in Lajpat Nagar. Renowned for its vibrant Tibetan culture and flavorsome cuisine, this eatery whips up an exquisite thukpa that encapsulates the essence of Tibet and transports diners on a gustatory voyage.

Final Thoughts:

In a city as diverse as Delhi-NCR, finding the perfect thukpa can be a truly rewarding experience. From the authentic Tibetan settlements of Majnu ka Tilla to the bustling streets of Kamla Nagar, these ten establishments have mastered the art of crafting the most satisfying thukpas. Each bowl serves not just a hearty meal but also a taste of comfort and happiness that warms the soul. For those in search of culinary delights, these thukpa havens are a must-visit to experience the true essence of Tibetan flavors and hospitality. So, don your foodie hat and embark on a delightful journey to discover the most satisfying thukpas that Delhi-NCR has to offer!

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Gordon Ramsay Reveals His Secret Pantry Stash: These 10 Spices Transform Cooking Forever!

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gordon ramsay spices

Gordon Ramsay, the renowned chef, TV personality, and restaurateur, is known for his exceptional culinary skills and extraordinary taste in food. As he takes us on a delightful gastronomic journey through his various cooking shows and restaurants, there is one element that stands out and serves as the backbone of his culinary magic – his secret pantry stash of 10 essential spices. These carefully selected spices have the power to elevate any dish and transform cooking forever. In this article, we unveil the hidden gems that Ramsay swears by and the ways they can work wonders in your kitchen.

1. Smoked Paprika:

Gordon Ramsay’s pantry stash starts with the bold and smoky flavor of smoked paprika. This spice comes from ground dried red bell peppers that have been smoked to perfection. It adds a delightful depth to stews, soups, grilled meats, and even vegetarian dishes. Smoked paprika is also perfect for creating a rich and savory marinade for meats and vegetables, turning ordinary dishes into extraordinary delights.

2. Cumin Seeds:

Next on Ramsay’s list is cumin seeds. This aromatic spice is widely used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American cuisines. Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them releases their warm and earthy flavors, making them ideal for curries, spice blends, and grilled dishes. Ramsay’s tip is to use cumin seeds sparingly to enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

3. Garam Masala:

An essential spice blend in Indian cuisine, Garam Masala, holds a prominent place in Ramsay’s secret stash. This aromatic blend typically includes cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, and nutmeg. A pinch of Garam Masala can transform a simple curry, soup, or rice dish into a symphony of flavors, adding warmth and complexity.

4. Dried Thyme:

Thyme is a classic herb that deserves a spot in every kitchen, and Ramsay’s stash features the dried version. Its earthy and slightly minty flavor complements a wide array of dishes, from roasted meats and vegetables to pasta sauces and soups. Ramsay recommends using dried thyme when fresh thyme is unavailable, as it can be just as potent.

5. Turmeric:

Turmeric, the golden spice with numerous health benefits, is an integral part of Ramsay’s culinary repertoire. Its vibrant color and warm, slightly bitter taste make it a versatile spice for rice dishes, curries, soups, and even smoothies. Be cautious when using turmeric, as it can stain surfaces and clothes with its intense yellow hue.

6. Red Pepper Flakes:

For those who crave a touch of heat in their dishes, Ramsay turns to red pepper flakes. This spice is perfect for adding a kick to pasta, pizza, soups, and marinades. A pinch of red pepper flakes can take an ordinary dish to the next level, leaving a lasting impression on your taste buds.

7. Coriander Seeds:

Coriander seeds, with their citrusy and slightly sweet flavor, offer an excellent balance to many dishes. Ramsay grinds the seeds to use them in marinades, spice blends, and various meat and vegetable dishes. Coriander seeds are an indispensable spice in Mediterranean, Indian, and Thai cuisines, making them a versatile addition to any pantry.

8. Ground Mustard:

Ground mustard is another spice that Ramsay keeps close at hand. Its pungent and slightly bitter taste adds depth and complexity to dressings, sauces, and pickling recipes. It pairs well with meats, cheeses, and various vegetables, giving your dishes a distinctive kick.

9. Za’atar:

Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend that combines thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. Ramsay loves to sprinkle it on hummus, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and even flatbreads. The unique blend of flavors provides a tangy, herbal, and nutty taste that sets your dishes apart from the ordinary.

10. Cinnamon:

Last but not least, Ramsay’s pantry stash wouldn’t be complete without cinnamon. This versatile spice is essential for both sweet and savory dishes. Its warm and sweet flavor enhances baked goods, desserts, and breakfast dishes, while a pinch of cinnamon can also add a surprising twist to stews, tagines, and certain meat dishes.

Final Thoughts:

Gordon Ramsay’s secret pantry stash of 10 essential spices is a culinary treasure trove that can revolutionize your cooking forever. From the smoky richness of smoked paprika to the tangy delight of za’atar, these spices have the power to transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. Experimenting with these versatile spices will unlock a world of flavors in your kitchen, allowing you to create dishes that will impress family and friends alike. Embrace the culinary magic of Gordon Ramsay by incorporating these 10 spices into your cooking, and watch your dishes reach new heights of deliciousness.

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Chef Sanjyot Keer unveils Chef It Up Season 2 with star-studded lineup and exciting twist!

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Chef It Up Season 2

After the incredible triumph of Chef It Up Season 1, the acclaimed chef and culinary sensation, Sanjyot Keer, is elated to unveil the much-awaited Chef It Up Season 2. This time around, Chef Sanjyot Keer is joining forces with a star-studded lineup of his talented celebrity and creator friends, including Jemimah Rodrigues, Karishma Tanna, Yashraj Mukhate, and Tanmay Bhat. Together, they are set to deliver an electrifying cooking challenge like never before, all in collaboration with India’s leading online supermarket, BigBasket’s bbnow.

Chef It Up Season 2 promises an exhilarating and captivating experience as guests take on the ultimate cooking challenge. The task at hand is to recreate one of the most popular dishes from Chef Sanjyot’s acclaimed enterprise, ‘Your Food Lab.’ But here’s where the excitement kicks in – Chef Sanjyot will be right there, cooking the same dish alongside them, yet remaining unseen to the contestants. Their culinary prowess will be put to the test as they must rely solely on Chef Sanjyot’s verbal instructions to complete the task. Can they rise to the occasion and truly ‘Chef It Up’? Get ready for a gripping culinary journey filled with surprises and delicious creations!

The debut season of Chef It Up garnered immense praise for its inventive format and mouthwatering recipes. Now, in the upcoming season, the excitement is set to soar to unprecedented levels with the introduction of a distinctive guest lineup. Every episode will showcase a one-of-a-kind cooking challenge, pushing the contestants’ skills and creativity to the limits, resulting in a truly delightful experience for both participants and viewers alike.

Chef Sanjyot Keer, Founder of Your Food Lab and Digital Content Creator, said, “I am incredibly excited to collaborate with Tanmay, Jemimah, Karishma and of course, Yashraj for Chef It Up Season 2. It’s a fresh and challenging concept that will not only test their cooking abilities but also create an entertaining and fun experience for the audience. When brands like BigBasket’s bbnow come aboard to support unique content creation ideas, our job as digital content creators becomes so much more exciting and worthy of the effort!”

Commenting on this collaboration, Anand Bhaskaran- Head – Digital Marketing & Marketing Communications, BigBasket said, “When the opportunity presented us to collaborate with Your Food Lab and Chef Sanjyot Keer, it just clicked. We felt Chef Sanjyot’s focus on excellence, combined with the fun vibe of the show, would resonate with the digitally native audience that’s core to bbnow. We hope the audience will have as much fun watching the show as we did making it.”

In an exciting collaboration, Chef It Up Season 2 has found a brand partner in BigBasket, India’s top online supermarket. This partnership is a treat for all food enthusiasts, cooking aficionados, and fans of the guests. Together, they promise to deliver a thrilling and mouth-watering experience that will captivate everyone’s taste buds.

Their unwavering dedication to providing quality and fresh ingredients perfectly complements the essence of the show, making them the ideal partner for this thrilling culinary journey.

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Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting accelerates food business growth with cutting-edge research center

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Wipro
Wipro (Representative Image)

Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting, a rapidly expanding global FMCG company, is delighted to unveil the inauguration of its state-of-the-art Research and Innovation hub in Bengaluru. Situated at the sprawling Wipro House campus in Koramangala, this cutting-edge center reflects Wipro’s unwavering dedication to propelling its Foods Business to new heights.

Wipro Consumer Care and Lighting announced its foray into the Foods Business in 2022, and since then, has made planned acquisitions with Nirapara and Brahmins in the spice and ready-to-eat category, aiming to solidify its position in its core markets down south. Wipro plans to grow organically with its food brand in the works, and keeping that in mind, the R&D facility aims to accelerate innovation and product development for the Foods Business.

Commenting on this latest development, Vineet Agrawal, CEO of Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting and MD of Wipro Enterprises, said, “With the ever-changing consumer preferences and an increasingly competitive market landscape, investing in research and innovation is paramount for us as we step into the highly competitive foods business. The establishment of this state-of-the-art Food Research and Innovation centre reaffirms our dedication to delivering high-quality and innovative food products to consumers across our markets.”

“Wipro Foods Business Research and Innovation centre is a testament to our commitment to promoting innovative, healthy and tasty foods”, added Anil Chugh, President – of Foods Business. “We envision this centre to become a hub for collaborative ideation, where the consumer is at the centre of developing tasty products. We thus have a one of its kind integrated research facility which includes a sensory unit, a state-of-the-art kitchen and a high-end analytics lab – all under one roof.

The establishment features top-tier infrastructure, complete with a state-of-the-art Innovation hub encompassing a dedicated sensory laboratory, research facility, advanced culinary workspace, and a highly skilled ensemble of food scientists, researchers, chefs, and specialists. This hub will prioritize the conception and advancement of novel food items, commencing with the snacks category, thereby enriching and diversifying our comprehensive food product lineup.

Furthermore, the Research and Innovation center will foster collaborations with nearby universities, research institutions, and technology partners to harness the most recent breakthroughs in the food industry. By integrating sustainable and environmentally conscious practices into product development, we aim to create food offerings that are not only innovative but also responsible towards our planet.

Wipro Consumer Care and Lighting, a division of Wipro Enterprises, stands as one of India’s most rapidly expanding FMCG enterprises. Their extensive business portfolio encompasses personal wash products, toiletries, facial care items, home care products, electrical wire devices, domestic and commercial lighting, seating solutions, and a recent foray into the Foods business. With more than 10,000 dedicated employees and an impressive 52% representation of women employees worldwide, Wipro Consumer Care holds a strong brand presence, commanding substantial market share in both India and Southeast Asia. Additionally, the company’s reach is steadily growing across Africa and the Middle East, aided by an impressive 51% of its revenue derived from international ventures.

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KFC owner Devyani International reports 84% decrease in Q1 FY24 net profit

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KFC
KFC (Representative Image)

On Friday, Devyani International reported a significant 84% decrease in its net profit for the June 2023 quarter, amounting to INR 11.75 crore. This is in stark contrast to the INR 73.84 crore profit the company had reported in the same period the previous year.

The revenue from operations in the April-June quarter of FY23 reached INR 846.63 crore, indicating a substantial 20% year-on-year (YoY) growth. This compares to the INR 704.72 crore revenue achieved in the corresponding period of the previous year.

The decrease in net profit was driven by a significant 24% increase in total expenses, which amounted to INR 793.16 crore in Q1FY24. This is in contrast to the total expenses of INR 636.58 crore recorded in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year.

The company reported a 12% increase in sales quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) in its filing to the exchanges. According to the filing, the core brands, namely KFC (INR 516 crore, 16% QoQ), Pizza Hut (INR 184 crore, 8% QoQ), and Costa Coffee (INR 32 crore, -2% QoQ), maintained stable revenues during the mentioned quarter.

The EBITDA increased 14.6% to INR 173.4 crore, which was up 14.6% QoQ. This resulted in an EBITDA margin of 20.5%, with a profit before tax (PBT) of INR 13 crore. “The consolidated PBT got impacted because of significant currency devaluation in Nigeria.

After normalization, the Profit Before Tax (PBT) amounted to INR 60.3 crore for the quarter, in comparison to INR 41.2 crore in the previous quarter.

“I am pleased to share that we have started the new fiscal year on a healthy note, despite facing challenges from a difficult macro environment and depressed consumer spending. We are going to be opening 275 to 300 stores during the current fiscal year, as we continue working towards our ambitious target of reaching 2,000 stores by 2026,” a media statement said, quoting Ravi Jaipuria, Non-Executive Chairman of Devyani International.

On Vaango, its south Indian cuisine brand, Jaipuria said that it was shaping up well with 52 stores.

Post announcement, shares of the company fell nearly 4% to INR 186.

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McDowell’s No.1 Soda ventures into the metaverse with ‘Yaariverse’ – A revolutionary virtual reality platform

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Yaariverse
Yaariverse

McDowell’s No.1 Soda has now stepped into the metaverse through “Yaariverse,” an immersive platform that transports customers to a realm of interactive zones featuring extraordinary concerts and captivating content experiences.

Yaariverse is an innovative and boundless realm that revolutionizes the way audiences and their friends, known as “yaars,” nurture friendships. Through this platform, they can forge deeper connections in ways never before imagined.

Ruchira Jaitly, Vice-President, Marketing & Portfolio head, Diageo India, said, “Yaariverse represents a ground-breaking step for McDowell’s No1 Soda, as we foray into the metaverse and redefine how consumers engage with our brand. We were among the first FMCG brands to have leveraged the unlimited possibilities of the Metaverse when we hosted a Holi bash & concert in 2022. We have come a long way from there and now bring to consumers a whole universe that promises unforgettable experiences and a lot more.”

Yaariverse breathes life into a virtual reality platform, offering revellers the chance to fully immerse themselves in thrilling concerts and captivating content experiences within the metaverse. It’s a one-of-a-kind opportunity for users to engage and interact with an exciting digital world like never before.

“We are excited to partner with Diageo and McDowell’s No1 Soda in shaping the future of immersive experiences. The Yaariverse seamlessly integrates the real and virtual worlds. We believe it will bring a unique and unforgettable dimensional experience to how consumers engage and connect with their friends,” added Neeraj Roy, MD & Founder, Hungama Digital Media.

Diageo India stands as the foremost beverage alcohol company in the country, operating under the umbrella of the renowned global leader, Diageo Plc. The company is dedicated to crafting, marketing, and distributing an exceptional array of premium brands, including renowned names like Johnnie Walker, Black Dog, Black & White, VAT 69, Antiquity, Signature, The Singleton, Royal Challenge, McDowell’s No1, Smirnoff, among several others.

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