OUR CHIPS AND OUR OIL
The Chips
We are very proud of the fact that our chips are never frozen. We do not, however, peel the potatoes on site. They are prepared for us, chilled and vacuum sealed. So if you see what look suspiciously like frozen chip bags, please do not be concerned. They are never frozen.
The Oil
Many of you will have read of the increasing health risks associated with the use of hydrogenated oils. We do not use hydrogenated oil.
Hydrogenation is a common practise which by means of heat treatment in the presence of metal catalysts alters the structure of the oil. Hydrogenation produces trans fatty acids and removes naturally occurring unsaturated fatty acids. Consumption of trans fatty acids increases the concentrations of bad cholesterol whilst reducing the concentrations of HDL or good cholesterol. It is most commonly used in long life oils, margarines, and processed foods.
The concerns are so great that the use of hydrogenated oil has been banned in New Zealand and Sweden, at present the City of New York is also preparing to ban its use. For almost more than you could need to know about killer hydrogenated oil trans fatty acids see Recovery Medicine.
We use a non hydrogenated totally natural Cotton Seed Oil. This is the oil most commonly used for tempura frying and produces a crisp non greasy chip. We hope you enjoy them.
Barn Reared Chicken
With the present uncertainty over the future of free range chicken we have elected to change our source of supply. The chicken we are now buying is 'Farm Assured' and Barn Raised. This in effect means that the chickens are kept indoors throughout their life, but are guaranteed to be raised in compliance with the Farm Assured Welfare guidelines.