Cost savings, no paperwork, reduced stock loss – Nisa Local store in Cornwall enjoys the benefits of FoodCheck2.0 from Kelsius

The Nisa Local store in St Stephen, Cornwall, is a large and busy convenience retailer offering a wide range of food essentials, with chilled and frozen food storage as well as a busy hot food department.

In the past the store relied on a basic thermometer and probe system for food temperature checks. This paper-based process was time-consuming and dependent on staff remembering to complete checks, resulting in extra workload and potential gaps in compliance and traceability.

The store needed a system that would address the gaps that the manual, paper-based system presented.

 

 

FoodCheck2.0 transforms food safety for Nisa Local St Stephen

Nisa Local St Stephen implemented the Kelsius FoodCheck2.0 digital HACCP and automated temperature monitoring system. It provides the store team with prompts for required tasks, ensuring temperature checks are never missed. Real-time alerts notify staff of equipment issues instantly, allowing for swift action. Installation was straightforward, and staff quickly adapted to the app-based system.

 

Immediate benefits delivered for HACCP and food safety

Installing FoodCheck2.0 from Kelsius delivered immediate results for the team at Nisa Local St Stephen:

  • 30–60 minutes saved per day by removing manual data logging.
  • Hundreds of pounds worth of food products saved and food waste reduced thanks to equipment failure alerts.
  • Streamlined audits with all records instantly available for inspectors.
  • A paperless operation with no printer or ink costs.

 

Reliability and efficiency bring confidence across the store

The Kelsius FoodCheck 2.0 system has been adopted in the Nisa Local store in St Stephen across management and staff.

Staff are confident that they will never miss any issues with fridge, freezer or power failures thanks to the real-time alerts should problems arise. The Kelsius system has saved the store hundreds of pounds in potential food loss and they have reduced waste in terms of food, paper and energy.

 

Nicola Anstey, Branch Manager, Nisa Local St Stephen, Cornwall

“We absolutely love the system — it’s easy, straightforward, and the prompts are brilliant. We’ve already avoided losing hundreds of pounds worth of stock thanks to instant alerts. Our auditors have been really impressed with the system.”

 

 

Monitoring Matters Podcast: Automated Food Safety for Butchers

In the latest episode of our podcast Monitoring Matters, we delve into how butchers can revolutionize their food safety protocols by transitioning from traditional paper-based systems to digital solutions. The focus is on Kelsius’ FoodCheck 2.0, a system designed to streamline operations, ensure compliance, and safeguard products.

The Shift from Paper to Digital

Traditional HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) systems often rely on manual record-keeping, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. FoodCheck 2.0 offers a digital alternative, providing butchers with a user-friendly platform to monitor and record critical food safety data in real-time.

Key Benefits of FoodCheck 2.0 for Butchers

  • Wireless Temperature Monitoring: Ensure that all storage units maintain optimal temperatures, reducing the risk of spoilage.
  • Automated Alerts: Receive instant notifications if temperatures deviate from set parameters, allowing for swift corrective actions.
  • Enhanced Traceability: Track products by batch code, supplier invoice, or specific tasks, facilitating efficient recalls and audits.
  • Time and Cost Savings: Automating routine checks frees up staff time, allowing them to focus on core tasks, and reduces the costs associated with manual record-keeping.

Real-World Impact

Implementing FoodCheck 2.0 has led to significant improvements for many butcher shops:

  • Reduced Stock Loss: Automated alerts help prevent losses due to equipment failures.
  • Improved Compliance: Digital records simplify the auditing process and ensure adherence to food safety regulations.
  • Operational Efficiency: Streamlined processes lead to better resource allocation and improved customer satisfaction.

 

🎧 Listen to the episode here: 

👉 Learn more about the solution at www.kelsius.com/butcher

Kelsius temperature monitoring is a cut above the rest for management and staff at Rio Steakhouse

Rio Steakhouse is a premium steakhouse group with eight locations across the UK, offering an authentic Brazilian dining experience. Guests enjoy a unique rodizio-style service, with premium meats served by expert chefs. Across its venues, Rio delivers an immersive culinary journey, blending exceptional hospitality with the rich flavours of Brazil.

 

 

The Challenge 

Rio faced challenges in managing food safety and HACCP records across its eight locations. Ensuring compliance and maintaining up-to-date records was a complex task for head chefs, particularly ahead of EHO inspections.

Additionally, as the business expanded, rising costs highlighted the need to reduce food waste and improve control over kitchen operations.

 

Introducing FoodCheck2.0 from Kelsius

Recognising these challenges, the new Operations Director Rodrigo saw an opportunity to introduce the Kelsius digital HACCP system across the Rio estate. The benefits were significant:

  • 2 hours saved per day per property, on average saved by all food staff.
  • £1,000 per year per property estimated saved on wasted food.
  • 4 hours per week saved by management using automated reports.
  • Paper, ink and folders usage reduced to zero.
  • Food safety training time reduced by half.
  • 90% estimated reduction in mistakes due to human error.

 

A streamlined audit process

Commenting on using FoodCheck2.0 in Rio Steakhouse, Managing Director Rodrigo Grassi Duarte said, “I wouldn’t want to work anywhere that didn’t have the Kelsius system implemented. A big part is being able to streamline the audit process. We have been able to provide EHOs with full visibility of our records which gives them huge confidence in our processes.”

 

Barbara Alves, Executive Chef, Rio Steakhouse

“I wouldn’t want to work anywhere that didn’t have the Kelsius system implemented. A big part is being able to streamline the audit process. We have been able to provide EHOs with full visibility of our records which gives them huge confidence in our processes.

 

“Automated appliance monitoring is also so important to us. It saves our team roughly two hours a day, whilst also saving us £1,000 in stock alone in the last year from notifying our team of faulty appliances”

 

 

Kingsbridge Private Hospital Protects Food Safety & Improves Efficiencies with Kelsius

Kingsbridge Private Hospital is a leading healthcare provider with multiple sites across Northern Ireland. The hospital group includes kitchens, cafés, staff areas, and snack bars—all serving patients and staff daily. 

With patient health a top priority, the team needed a reliable and efficient food safety system. They wanted a solution that would ensure compliance, improve visibility, and support their sustainability goals. 

 

 

The Challenge 

Managing food safety in a hospital is complex. The team needed to: 

  • Ensure HACCP compliance across all sites 
  • Respond to issues in real time 
  • Simplify reporting for inspections 
  • Reduce paper usage and food waste 

 

The Solution 

After reviewing their options, Kingsbridge chose Kelsius FoodCheck 2.0.

The system was installed across all catering areas. It automates temperature checks, task logging, and record keeping. It gives managers real-time insights and full control from one dashboard. 

 

The Results 

Since going digital with Kelsius, the team has seen big improvements:

  • Real-time alerts mean issues are fixed fast, reducing risk to patients
  • Digital records make audits easy and save time
  • Central task management improves consistency across all sites
  • Paper and food waste have both dropped, helping sustainability targets
  • Staff efficiency is up, with faster training and simpler processes

 

The Outcome 

By automating HACCP compliance, streamlining task management, and enhancing sustainability, the hospital group has improved both patient safety and operational efficiency. 

 

Jim Farren, Group Catering Manager, Kingsbridge Private Hospital

“Kelsius has truly transformed how we manage food safety across all our sites. The real-time alerts, automated reporting, and centralised visibility allow us to act quickly and maintain the highest standards. It’s an invaluable tool that ensures our patients’ health is always our number one priority.”

 

 

Navigating Food Safety Compliance in UK Retail: Challenges and Solutions

Ensuring food safety is a paramount concern for UK food retailers, as it directly impacts consumer health, brand reputation, and regulatory compliance. Navigating the complexities of food safety regulations can be challenging, but with the right tools and systems, retailers can maintain high standards and streamline their operations.

 

Understanding UK Food Safety Regulations 

The UK enforces stringent food safety laws to protect consumers and uphold food quality. Key legislation includes the Food Safety Act 1990 and the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013, which mandate that businesses ensure food is safe for consumption and meet hygiene standards.  

Retailers are required to implement effective food safety management systems, conduct regular hazard analyses, and maintain detailed records of their processes. Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, including fines, legal action, and damage to brand reputation. 

 

Common Challenges Faced by UK Retailers 
  1. Regulatory Compliance: Keeping abreast of evolving food safety regulations demands continuous monitoring and adaptation. 
  2. Record Keeping: Maintaining accurate and accessible records is essential but can be labour-intensive and prone to human error. 
  3. Supply Chain Management: Ensuring that all suppliers adhere to food safety standards requires diligent oversight and coordination. 
  4. Staff Training: Regular training is necessary to keep staff informed about best practices and regulatory changes, which can be resource intensive. 
  5. Labour Shortages: Retail particularly continues to face the challenge of labour shortages caused in varying degrees by the effects of the pandemic, Brexit and the availability of a flow of a suitable workforce.  
  6. Rising costs: The cost of doing business is significant for UK food retailers who need to consider the price of stock, energy, labour, regulatory compliance, local services and business rates. All while at the same time consumer behaviour continues to shift towards price-driven purchase decisions.  

 

How a Digital HACCP System can Help 

Kelsius offers innovative digital solutions designed to assist UK retailers in overcoming these challenges: 

  • FoodCheck 2.0: This system automates temperature monitoring and HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) management, reducing reliance on manual checks and paperwork. It provides real-time data and alerts, ensuring swift responses to potential issues. 
  • CoolCheck: Specialising in wireless temperature monitoring, CoolCheck ensures that all refrigeration units operate within safe parameters, preventing spoilage and ensuring compliance with food safety standards.

Benefits of Implementing Kelsius Systems 

  • Enhanced Compliance: Automated monitoring and record-keeping simplify adherence to regulations and facilitate smoother audits. 
  • Operational Efficiency: Reducing manual tasks allows staff to focus on core business activities, improving overall productivity. 
  • Data-Driven Insights: Access to comprehensive data enables informed decision-making and proactive management of food safety risks. 


Conclusion 

In the dynamic landscape of UK retail, maintaining rigorous food safety standards is both a regulatory requirement and a competitive advantage. Kelsius provides the tools necessary to streamline compliance, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure the highest levels of food safety. 

For more information on how Kelsius can support your business, visit www.kelsius.com. 

 

Kelsius Digital HACCP and wireless temperature monitoring exceeds expectations for Hastings Hotels

The Culloden Estate And Spa Exterior

On average, each property saves three hours per day for all food staff

 

Hastings Hotels is a luxury hotel group operating six hotels and a stand-alone Gastro Pub, Cultra Inn, situated on the Culloden Estate in Northern Ireland, serving a wide range of prepared and fresh food to its customers. These seven properties offer guests an impressive choice of venues, catering across leisure, events, sporting pursuits and gourmet dining.

 

 

Challenges Faced by Management and Chefs

Hastings Hotels faced the challenge of managing food safety and HACCP records across multiple locations. Larger properties like the Grand Central and Europa Hotels have different areas for multiple kitchens, bars, delis and large catering spaces, all requiring up to date records to be kept.

Management had little oversight of all food safety records, with a paper process that was prone to errors, and too much time was spent on recording data rather than providing the best guest experience.

Chefs spent too much time reviewing paper records and manually recoding temperatures across different kitchens and floors. Stock was being lost due to no notifications of faulty appliances, and there was little traceability for food.

 

Introducing the Kelsius System

The Kelsius FoodCheck 2.0 system was introduced into operations at Hastings Hotels. With the system now in use in their properties, management has more confidence and peace of mind as audits and inspections are easier. Reporting is streamlined and it’s much easier to train any agency staff who are required ad hoc.

Digital traceability means better transparency and accountability, with no risk of falsification or mistakes due to human error. Automated alerts have hugely reduced the risk of food waste due to temperature excursions, improving the shelf life of products.

 

Benefits

  • Three hours saved per day on average per property by all food staff
  • Estimated £2000 per year per property saved on wasted food
  • Four hours per week saved by management using automated report
  • Paper, ink and folders used reduce to zero
  • Food safety training time reduced by half
  • 90% estimated reduction in mistakes caused by human error

 

 

Raymond Duncan Compliance, Operations & Procurement Manager, Hastings Group:

“Using the Kelsius system, I have peace of mind knowing all food safety processes are being adhered to. The automated system minimises human error and it’s so much easier for management to remotely identify trends or gaps in any hotel and act in real time. Our EHO loves the system as it gives them full visibility of our processes, in turn they are more confident in us to maintain outstanding food safety for our guests. We’re delighted with the system.”

 

 

The Importance of Temperature Control for Businesses in the Food Supply Chain

Temperature control is a cornerstone of the food supply chain, directly influencing food safety, product quality, and overall business success. Leveraging tools like wireless temperature monitoring, digital HACCP systems, and automated temperature reporting ensures compliance and efficiency across all stages, from farm to table.

Maintaining the correct temperature from the moment food is harvested until it reaches the consumer prevents spoilage, contamination, and waste. Incorporating advanced food industry IoT solutions, such as digital HACCP, streamlines these processes, reduces risks, and enhances operational efficiency.

In this article, we will examine the important role of temperature control and its impact on companies within the food industry.

Ensuring Food Safety

Food safety is the top priority in the food supply chain. Fluctuations in temperature can create conditions conducive to the growth of harmful bacteria, leading to health risks. In the UK, there are approximately 1 million reported cases of food poisoning annually1. In the US, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 48 million people suffer from foodborne illnesses each year, many due to improper temperature management2.

Maintaining the correct temperature during storage and transport minimises the risk of contamination. Businesses can achieve this through temperature mapping services, paperless HACCP solutions, and cold storage monitoring systems. These technologies ensure that temperature is consistently monitored and controlled across storage facilities, transport vehicles, and retail environments.

Preserving Food Quality

Temperature management not only safeguards food safety but also preserves the quality of food products. Perishable items such as fresh produce, meat, and dairy products have specific temperature requirements to maintain their flavour, texture, and nutritional value.

Incorrect temperature storage can accelerate the ripening of fruits and vegetables or lead to spoilage, resulting in financial losses. With readily available tools like CoolCheck and compliance auditing solutions, businesses can ensure product integrity throughout the supply chain.

Proper temperature management enables businesses to deliver high-quality products consistently. This fosters customer satisfaction, builds brand loyalty, and strengthens the company’s market reputation.

Compliance with Regulations

Adhering to food safety regulations is crucial for businesses in the food industry. Many jurisdictions mandate specific guidelines for temperature control, and non-compliance can lead to fines, legal actions, and reputational damage.

Investing in digital HACCP compliance automation and tools like the Kelsius Audit App allows businesses to meet regulatory requirements while safeguarding public health. Regular audits, accurate documentation, and comprehensive staff training on temperature protocols ensure compliance and mitigate risks of penalties.

Reducing Waste and Improving Efficiency

Inefficiencies in temperature control contribute to significant food waste, which accounts for nearly one-third of all food produced globally. This waste not only results in financial losses but also raises environmental concerns.

Implementing effective temperature management solutions, such as wireless temperature monitoring, can help businesses reduce spoilage, cut down on waste, and enhance operational efficiency.

Additionally, efficient temperature management improves supply chain processes. Businesses can better predict inventory needs, optimize stock levels, and respond more effectively to market demands. This saves time and resources while reducing environmental impacts.

Conclusion

Maintaining effective temperature control is essential for businesses in the food supply chain. It ensures food safety, preserves quality, meets regulatory requirements, and minimises waste.

Companies that prioritise temperature management solutions, such as automated temperature monitoring and digital HACCP systems, position themselves for success in a competitive marketplace. By fostering consumer trust and enhancing operational efficiency, these businesses can drive long-term growth.

Explore how Kelsius solutions can revolutionise your operations with cutting-edge supply chain wireless temperature monitoring systems.

Sources:

  1. Food Standards Agency: https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/news/bank-holiday-barbecue-checklist
  2. CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/foodborneburden/