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What to Know: French Fries

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French fries can play a profitable role on menus when done right. They can be used to offset other costs in your product mix because of their high profit margin. For example, the average 8 oz. of fries at $0.50 is able to give you a potential profit of $3.49 if sold at $3.99.

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Less Expensive Does Not Necessarily Mean Higher Profits

The purchase of premium fries may seem costly initially, however, in the end it actually will gain you a higher return. Premium fries are often longer in size and contain high solids-  upholding its shape for a longer period of time. This results in less product needed to fill the dish or container it is put in. Shorter fries typically take more to fill a container, and can require more oil.

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What Makes a Great Fry?

What separates an okay French fry from a great one is its texture, length and solid contents. Ideally your fries should have a crunchy exterior and a light, fluffy interior. When eating a serving of French fries, the last fry should always hold its form. Imagine eating a burger with a side of fries. Fries are either eaten first or last- so be sure to leave a lasting impression. Consistency is also key to great fries (think about McDonalds fries). Keeping consistency in your preparation and cooking process, reduces quality errors.

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Qualities to Look for:
  • Great hold time
  • Consistent product
  • Crispy outer coating
  • Solid textured inside
  • Minimum breakage
  • Quality potato flavor

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We Recommend:
  • Cavendish Farms French Fries Straight Cut Clear Coat 3/8'' (Ferraro# 4300247)
  • Cavendish Farms French Fries Zesty Wedge Skin on (Ferraro# 4300258)
  • Cavendish Farms French Fries Straight Cut Crystal Coat 3/8'' (Ferraro# 4300210)‍
  • Cavendish Farms French Fries Sweet Potato Fries 3/8'' Thick-cut Skin on (Ferraro# 3610001)

Ferraro Foods Fries Stocking List Here.

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How to Prepare to Maximize Taste

Fill your fry basket only halfway. Use a thermometer to make sure the oil it is being fried in is at the right temperature. Shake the fry basket after about 30 seconds of cooking- to ensure that every fry gets its even coat of oil. Cook for the exact recommended time on the package. For best results, serve no longer than 7 minutes after cooking. Oil should be changed out daily, or even more frequently, depending on usage.

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Take Out or Delivery

French fries are the fastest growing item on delivery orders across all age groups. Compared to the year prior, French fry delivery increased by 42.8%. Food delivery is not just for pizza anymore, as delivery is becoming more accessible and consumers place a higher value on convenience.  The packaging your fries come in can be as important as the fries itself. According to Datassential, 44% of takeout and delivery orders take more than 30 minutes to receive, so make sure your fries survive the trip. Select your delivery containers wisely to assure the greatest customer experience.

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Some Key Factors to Keep in Mind When Packaging your Fries:
  • Container that is covered to prevent heat loss
  • A vented container to prevent excess moisture
  • Enough space for breathability

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The best fries for a to-go menu are thicker, cut 3/8’’ or wedges. This is because the slimmer cut fries do not maintain their heat as well. Also, be sure the fries you are packaging are a coated product to avoid sogginess and a buildup of moisture.

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Some to-go containers we recommend:

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The bottom line is that the quality of your fries matter and make a lasting impression on your customers- because they may be the last bites they eat of their meal- whether they dined in or got their meal to-go. Lastly, cheaper fries do not always translate to higher profits because of their hold time. Do your fries pass the test?

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Try our Fry Recipes: