The Culinary Insider - October 12, 2009 (Vol. VII, Issue 22)

Prepare for H1N1 Flu

Did you know that businesses and employers play a key role in protecting employees’ health and safety, as well as in limiting the negative impact of flu outbreaks on the individual, the community and the nation’s economy?

Now is the time to prepare for the H1N1, personally and professionally, if you have not already. FLU.gov, a combined effort of the White House, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Department of Education, was established to help you. The site contains information from prevention to preparedness for individuals, families and businesses of all sizes. You will find fact sheets, planning guides, checklists, communication tools and more. Updates are posted weekly.

Durable and Precise OHAUS FD Scales

For durable and precise weighing, the OHAUS FD combines a large, bright display with an internal battery that lasts 120 hours between charges. With capacities from 6lb to 30lb, and precision up to 0.1g, these scales can be configured in lb, oz, lb:oz, kg and g. Includes modes for checkweighing and for baker’s percentages. NSF listed, supports HACCP systems. For more information or to find out how to buy, call (800) 672-7722, ext. 7021.

A Quest for Certification

Did you know that ACF has a tool to help you determine which certification is right for you? The Certification Requirements Grid will direct you to the certification level that best reflects your educational background and work experience. Please contact certify@acfchefs.net with any of your certification questions.

Help Us Help You

Support the Chef & Child Foundation (CCF) by participating in a brief questionnaire by Oct. 19, prepared by CCF and Clemson University. We are interested in hearing your level of interest in learning more about current culinary nutrition topics and your perception on offering healthy menu items, so we can better support you. Participation in the survey is voluntary and anonymous. If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact Margaret Condrasky at mcondra@clemson.edu, or the University’s Office of Research Compliance at (864) 656-6460. Thank you for your support.

Chefs on a Budget… Find Out How You Can Save on Kitchen Uniforms

After much research, culinary professionals & students agree, Happy Chef Uniforms is the #1 choice for affordable, high quality kitchen apparel. They have the largest selection of premium chef coats, pants, aprons, headwear & more. Currently offering products up to 60% OFF! Chef coats & pants for UNDER $10. Aprons as low as $2.25. Can’t beat these deals ANYWHERE!

Check out amazing offers at www.HappyChefUniforms.com or call (800) 347-0288.

AAC Accepting Applications for 2010

The American Academy of Chefs (AAC) is accepting applications for 2010 induction. Are you an AAC Fellow who knows of an ideal ACF member? Are you an ACF member interested in becoming an Academy Fellow? Review the requirements. There is a $35 fee to receive an application and you must have an Academy Fellow request it from the AAC national office by calling (800) 624-9458, or e-mailing academy@acfchefs.net. The application deadline is Dec. 31.

Congratulations Certified ACF Chefs

A list of recently ACF certified and recertified chefs is now available on the ACF Web site and can be searched by specific ACF chapter. You can also access this information by visiting your chapter’s Web site page. Visit your chapter listing often and celebrate your new certificants.

Top Chef Season 7 is Now Casting

Every season the bar gets higher and every season it means more to be the one on top. Do you have what it takes to be the next Top Chef? Visit http://www.bravotv.com/casting for casting information.

Hell’s Kitchen Holding Casting Calls

FOX’s “Hell’s Kitchen” is back as Gordon Ramsay looks for the best to work beside him in the hottest kitchen on earth. Applicants must be passionate, skilled at their craft and aim to become the next winner of “Hell’s Kitchen.” Find out locations and more, and apply.

Be a Part of the Team. Be a Part of the Heritage. Be a Part the Journey.

Are you ready to push your skills to the limit? Do you want to work with the best industry chefs? Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to be a part of ACF Culinary Team USA. Apply for the youth or national team and go on a journey that will change your career.

Slice of Life Recipe Contest

Deadline Oct. 31
Submit your favorite Roman Meal bread recipe, providing it meets the requirements, by the Oct. 31 deadline. The grand prize is a $1,000 Visa gift card and a year’s supply of Roman Meal bread. Six first runner-up prizes and honorable mentions will be awarded. More.

2010 One-Pot Win A Lot Competition

Sponsored by Riviana Foods, Inc.
ACF and Riviana Foods, Inc. are partnering again to host a cooking competition at each of the 2010 ACF Regional Conferences and the National Convention. The rules are simple: 10 ingredients, including a Riviana rice variety, one pot and 15 minutes to cook.

Each regional champion receives a $250 cash prize and advances to the national competition at the ACF national convention to compete for a $1,000 prize. E-mail Melissa Shrader at mshrader@acfchefs.net, or call (800) 624-9458 for an application and competition information.