​Episode 174: A Hot Debate on the Ceres Podsquad

In this engaging episode of the Ceres Podsquad, Stelios is joined by industry experts David Miller, Mark Petrou, David Nicolaou, and Kelly Barnes for an insightful and spirited discussion about the future of chips in the food industry. They explore the impact of changing consumer preferences, particularly among younger generations, who increasingly gravitate towards fries over traditional thick-cut chips.

The group starts by delving into wheat and potato farming challenges, revealing the 15% decrease in UK wheat plantings and the unpredictable nature of crop yields. As harvest times are pushed back, questions around pricing arise, leaving listeners to wonder whether businesses can absorb these costs or pass them on to customers.

Stelios steers the conversation into one of the episode’s most intriguing debates: will fries replace traditional chips in fish and chip shops over the next decade? While Mark Petrou shares his cautious optimism about embracing thinner, fry-like chips to attract younger customers, David Miller points out that it might not just be about the size of the chips but how they are cooked and served. Kelly Barnes talks about her unique offering of battered chips, giving a fresh take on how shops can maintain tradition while evolving.

Listeners will also hear candid thoughts on the potential shift to frozen fries, with the group weighing the pros and cons of using fresh versus pre-cut potatoes. From price contracts to quality control, the conversation is loaded with practical advice for anyone in the industry, offering a deep dive into the art of producing the perfect chip.

As the episode progresses, the team touches on oil management and frying techniques, providing masterful insights into how to maintain consistent quality day in and day out. Mark’s memorable mantra for the perfect chip—“As crispy on the outside as a £50 note, as fluffy on the inside as a summer cloud”—will resonate with fryers across the industry.

Ultimately, the episode leaves listeners with one key takeaway: balancing tradition with innovation to keep up with changing consumer demands. With humour, expertise, and practical tips, the Ceres Podsquad delivers a podcast that is as informative as it is entertaining. Tune in to hear the entire conversation and discover the future of chips—available on all podcast platforms.