Ways to set up a commercial kitchen for your new food business
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So you have a great food product and are ready to start selling it commercially. Congratulations! The next step is to set up a commercial kitchen that meets all the necessary guidelines and regulations. Doing so can seem daunting, but we’re here to help. Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to set up a commercial kitchen for your new food business.
Find a space that meets the necessary guidelines
The first step is to find a space that meets all the health department guidelines for commercial kitchens. These guidelines vary from state to state, so do your research before signing a lease. Once you’ve found a space that meets the basic requirements, you’ll need to outfit it with the necessary equipment.
Install commercial-grade appliances
One of the most critical aspects of setting up a commercial kitchen is outfitting it with commercial-grade appliances. This includes everything from ovens and ranges to dishwashers and refrigerators. Commercial-grade devices are built to withstand heavy use, so they’re an essential investment for any food business. Bespoke Fabrications can help with a variety of custom-made stainless steel solutions.
You may also need additional equipment depending on the type of food you’ll be preparing. For example, if you’re planning on baking, you’ll need an industrial-sized mixer and baking pans. If you’re cooking a lot of meat, you’ll need a meat slicer and grinder.
Create an efficient workflow
Another important consideration when setting up your commercial kitchen is workflow. You’ll want to layout your space to allow your team to work efficiently and avoid any bottlenecks. One way to do this is by investing in quality kitchen equipment, such as prep tables, conveyor belts, or pass-through windows.
Consider storage solutions
When running a food business, storage will always be a concern. That’s why it’s essential to consider various storage solutions when setting up your commercial kitchen. For example, you might want to invest in some shelving units or racks that can help you keep your ingredients organised. You might also want to consider installing a walk-in cooler or freezer if you have the space.
Keep it organised
Last but not least, it’s essential to maintain a clean and well-organised kitchen. This means regularly cleaning all surfaces, floors, and equipment; doing routine maintenance on appliances; and keeping an eye out for potential pests or other hazards. A clean and well-maintained kitchen helps ensure the safety of your food products and makes it more efficient and enjoyable to work in.
Starting a food business is an exciting endeavour, but it’s also a lot of work! One of the most important aspects of any food business is the commercial kitchen, where all the magic happens. This can seem daunting, but we hope this guide has helped break down the process into manageable steps. Remember to find a space that meets all the necessary guidelines, outfit it with commercial-grade appliances, create an efficient workflow, consider storage solutions, and keep it clean! With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to success.
