Fri-Jado is highly commended in FCSI sustainable catering equipment award
Fri-Jado’s range of Custom Counters was highly commended in the FCSI (UK & Ireland) Sustainable Catering Equipment Award 2019. The presentation of the award was made at a gala dinner on 14 November, during the Catering Equipment Suppliers’ Association (CESA) Annual Conference held at the Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel.
Fri-Jado demonstrated that its Custom Counters incorporate innovative features, which deliver sustainability on several levels, not least in terms of energy efficiency. The counters feature the company’s unique and patent pending OmniCold refrigeration system, which works by blanketing the food on display from all sides. A low velocity air flow of approximately 120 m3/h/m circulates above and below the food. This feature combines the benefits of forced and static air flow cooling systems. The OmniCold air flow system, together with efficient LED lighting, DC fans, triple pane insulated side glass and a fully insulated shell, significantly reduces energy consumption to 4.54 kWh/day/m2 at 3M0. This figure is some 43% below the ECA Energy Efficiency Index threshold.
OmniCold refrigeration technology, with low velocity air circulation, also delivers accurate holding temperatures, reducing the rate of growth of pathogens and spoilage organisms, whilst slowing down physiological, biochemical and physical processes within food. This helps to ensure that food is maintained at perfect quality and appearance, over extended periods, reducing the amount of merchandise that may be price discounted or thrown away, due to product deterioration.
Fri-Jado has led the way in phasing out the use of refrigerants with higher ozone depletion potential, such as R404A and R410A. Its Custom Counters have been designed to operate efficiently with wide range of energy efficient, future-proof refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP), minimising the impact on the environment. Refrigerant options offered for use with the counters include R744/CO2, R455A and glycol for remote systems and R1234yf for integral systems.
In the development of its Custom Counter range, Fri-Jado has addressed issues, relating to the depletion of the planet’s precious raw materials. The high build quality and durable components used in the construction of the counters ensure that they have a longer operational life than competitive models. The inherent smart design means that the majority of components are compatible with future store upgrades, with all external panels, cladding, interior, worktops and even the glass suitable for use in refurbished or upgraded counters. When the products eventually reach their end-of-life cycle, they are 99% recyclable.