Streamline operations with high-quality, versatile products

Sponsored by Cargill

Foodservice establishments are enjoying gains in sales and traffic, but they are still facing challenges recruiting and retaining staff. While labor constraints have eased somewhat in recent months, operators still must overcome ongoing worker shortages. Meanwhile, consumers are returning to restaurants and are looking for their favorite foods and for innovative menu items.

To solve these issues, operators are working to streamline kitchen operations. One of the key ways to alleviate pressure on a reduced staff is to use high performance products that reduce some of the steps in food preparation. Frozen burger patties are one such ingredient.

According to the National Restaurant Association, 59% of operators said they are experiencing increased same-store sales, while only 35% of operators said they also have increased traffic. This rise in sales is likely due to higher prices, a factor that will slow down as inflation cools and prices stabilize. To maintain profitability, operators must find ways to increase traffic and generate repeat business.

Those are difficult tasks in the current environment, as finding workers presents an ongoing challenge. Citing the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the National Restaurant Association also reported that eating-and-drinking establishments added a net 14,900 jobs in August, and that the industry still had 32,400 fewer jobs than during the February 2020 employment peak.

Simplify kitchen processes

With these lean kitchen crews, foodservice operators must do more with less and are looking for new ways to accomplish this. One way is to streamline kitchen processes. The most immediate and cost-effective tactic is to utilize products that are versatile, offer optimal shelf stability, and are easy to use.

Many rely on frozen burger patties, helping save hours of labor as opposed to custom grinds. TNT™ Burgers, one of Cargill’s burger brands, offers exceptional preparation and storage convenience. The brand uses Individual Quick Frozen (IQF) technology, a process that consists of forming the beef into patties and then freezing them. The high-performance patties have exceptional tenderness and an over three-hour hold time, decreasing food waste, increasing efficiencies, and protecting profits.

TNT Burgers also are perfectly seasoned to enhance the beef flavor. So not only does the kitchen crew not have to grind beef, shape patties, and then store them in the freezer or the refrigerator, they don’t have to find various spices and flavors, measure the appropriate amounts, and shake a combination onto the patties.

Time for innovation

One result of streamlining the burger prep work is that the team has time to perform other tasks, such as developing new menu items. TNT Burgers are available in a variety of grinds, shapes, and sizes, and they all can provide a canvas for a variety of toppings.

Diners are craving high quality burgers with delicious, bold toppings. According to Mintel’s US Foodservice Sandwiches and Burgers Market Report 2023, 40% of consumers are interested in regionally inspired flavor offerings when it comes to burgers and sandwiches. Mintel also reports that consumers are looking for unique flavor combinations beyond what they can make at home.

Operators have an opportunity to satisfy the demand for innovative menu items and drive repeat visits from these burger enthusiasts. Offering on-trend flavors such as pickled ingredients, including red onion, sauerkraut, or kimchi, can attract customers seeking nontraditional toppings. Adding globally inspired sauces such as Raw Tomatillo Pico de Gallo (tomatillos, onion, cilantro, jalapeño), Chipotle Feta (chipotle paste and feta) or Curry Mayo (curry powder, mayo, mango chutney) can satisfy adventurous diners.

Carriers such as waffles, garlic bread, or potato rolls offer an alternative to traditional buns. Toppings can go beyond ketchup and mustard and include Guinness-and-bacon jam, chimichurri, or creamy aioli. For an upscale presentation, adding an additional protein like pulled pork can inspire an unexpected topping that guests will love. Mac-and-cheese as a topping can provide a more comfort food feel. Stacking burgers and toppings can provide a social media-worthy presentation.

When it comes to streamlining kitchen operations, the key to selecting the right product is to use one that offers unbeatable taste and superior performance. TNT Burgers are available in a variety of SKUs and offer the consistency that operators need in the kitchen and the great taste and juicy texture consumers crave in a burger. For more information or to request a cutting, visit tntburgers.com.