UK: The self-seal thermal sanitised cutlery pouches, which are 100 per cent recyclable, can disinfect cutlery used in hotels, restaurants, pubs and other catering venues.
The product was created by Iain Shelton, managing director of The Swinton Estate, and Julian Ebbutt, former managing director of Best Loved Hotels and currently operations director for Alfresco Drinks.
It officially launched on 8 June and has already been adopted by luxury independent hotels throughout the UK, as well as large regional hotel groups and contract caterers.
It was designed in response to UKHospitality suggesting that cutlery be removed from tables, and a recent survey from Marcus Wareing which revealed 73 per cent of respondents expressing concern for transmission of COVID-19 from surfaces.
The product’s technology works in partnership with steam and combi ovens to disinfect and sterilise cutlery, which can then be stored for up to seven days in the sealed pouch. Branded options are also available.
Ebbutt said: “A particular challenge we all face is how do we ensure cutlery is safe and is perceived to be safe by the customer, without negatively impacting the guest experience, the environment and the P&L by using pre-packaged disposable cutlery. Our cutlery pouches are ideal for hotels, restaurants and events venues looking for an affordable solution to post-COVID food service and giving their guests reassurance about the steps they are taking to ensure impeccable hygiene standards.”
Prices start from £18 + VAT per box for the medium size (fits four pieces of cutlery) and £20 per box for the larger size (fits six pieces of cutlery).
Further information on Epicure Secure can be found here.
