Blade runner

When it comes to blenders combining speed and timing is vital for restaurant operators' consistency of product, coupled with the versatility to handle delicate recipes.

Whether purchasing for a small or high volume bar or restaurant, machines are designed for applications where there is a lack of counter space, such as Blendtec's SpaceSaver, which offers a 5.8"x7.5" footprint, as well as units for large-scale operations.

"Large-scale catering operations require reliable, professional equipment offering power and versatility, as well as blending with pre-programmed cycles that meet the needs of simple and tough jobs," says Byron Thueson, vice president, international sales, Blendtec.

Most of the new models on the market will also offer additional features such as motors, cooling fans and speed dials as key pull factors, as well as to eliminate overheating.

"The high-end food preparation blender must be able to quickly puree, grind, blend and chop without overheating, and should process the most difficult to blend ingredients with ease," comments Anne Mendenhall, marketing product coordinator, Vita-Mix Corporation.

Preparing a feast of trendy beverages, bartenders should select suitable models in order to blend frozen drinks, smoothies, hard ice cream and fresh fruit using optimised programming, allowing them to walk away from production in busy operations.

"The latest trends for drinkable desserts, protein smoothies and tea-infused frozen beverages are a far cry from the huge craze for fruit smoothies of previous years," Mendenhall adds.

Mixologists can also benefit from workhorses offering up to 30 microprocessor blend cycles and smoothers with sound reduction features, with competition among manufacturers influencing an influx of innovative accessories and features with new machines.

"Restaurant professionals can now connect units to their PCs, download our software and create their own cycles to achieve superior flavour profiles and minimise time, so the investment is a necessity rather than a luxury," Thueson adds.

Electrolux Professional

Electrolux Professional's planetary mixers are suitable for all preparation requirements, from kneading dough to mixing emulsions. With models ranging from 5ltrs to 80ltrs at mechanical or electronic speed variation, optional accessories include a meat mincer and a vegetable slicer.

Electrolux Professional

Tel: +39 0434 3801

Fax: +39 0434 380201

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Internet: www.electrolux.com/professional

Nemox

Italian-based Nemox has introduced its new Frix-Air 180 mixer for restaurants. The machine is designed to produce gelatos, sorbets, frozen yoghurts and delicates in five minutes. Suitable for back-of-house operations, the 700W motor and 18/10 stainless steel blade produces gelato mousse in one minute, and accessories include cutting and mixing tools, cup holders and a whipping disc.

Rio International

Tel: +971 4 28 333 11

Fax: +971 4 28 333 22

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Internet: www.riodubai.com