#Japan #Tokyo #Kawakita Medical #Central Kitchen #ZeroKara

Introduction

Zerokara, Inc. is taking significant steps in the healthcare sector by partnering with the Kawakita Medical Foundation based in Suginami, Tokyo. This collaboration focuses on developing a central kitchen aimed at revolutionizing hospital meal services through innovative rapid freezing technology. As meal quality and safety are critical in healthcare settings, Zerokara’s technology aims to maintain these standards efficiently while addressing the growing challenges faced by hospital meal service operations.

Background of the Initiative

The Kawakita Medical Foundation's decision to embrace a central kitchen and Cook Freeze method is rooted in the pressing issue of rising food service costs in hospitals. By centralizing kitchen operations, the foundation anticipates considerable cost savings that will not only streamline processes but also enhance service delivery. Creating a smaller kitchen within hospitals allows for an increase in the number of beds available, addressing ongoing space constraints in healthcare facilities.

Moreover, the Cook Freeze methodology is recognized for its superior hygiene standards, which include double heating during cooking and defrosting, making it safer than traditional chilled food methods. This innovative approach could open up new revenue streams by enabling the central kitchen to supply meals to other hospitals in the future, further enhancing its operational viability.

Collaboration with Meal Service Companies

Originally, the meal service for Kawakita Medical Foundation was managed by an outsourced catering company. However, the current model has transitioned to a labor contract system, where ingredients are now self-supplied from the central kitchen. This shift allows for greater control over food quality and preparation processes.

In the revamped structure, the central kitchen handles everything from ingredient sourcing to food preparation and freezing, while the catering company is responsible for reheating and plating the frozen meals. This operational modification minimizes the need for skilled culinary staff from the meal service, aiding in workforce management within a challenging job market.

Adopting the Cook Freeze method simplifies the workload; thus, it serves as an ideal training ground for new staff, making it more appealing for meal service companies adopting this system.

Quality Assessment Post Freezing

The frozen dishes prepared using Zerokara's rapid freezing technology have received positive assessments in terms of taste and texture. Unlike standard frozen goods, these meals maintain their original quality post-thaw, which has impressed visitors from other hospitals who were taken aback by the deliciousness and freshness of items like soft foods, fried delicacies, and egg sandwiches. Their comments often reflect disbelief that these were frozen options.

Future Expansion Plans

With the continuous rise in production volume from the central kitchen, plans for a second kitchen are being considered. Zerokara is committed to supporting the healthcare sector by developing technologies that alleviate operational strains, such as electric lifters and other automation equipment. This commitment aims to ensure the sustainability of medical meal services moving forward.

About Kawakita Medical Foundation

The Kawakita Medical Foundation operates in Suginami, Tokyo, providing a comprehensive range of medical services from acute care to rehabilitation and home care. As a central part of local healthcare, it aims to provide high-quality medical and caregiving services.

Official Website: Kawakita Medical

About Zerokara

Zerokara specializes in providing cutting-edge rapid freezing technology that addresses challenges within the medical, caregiving, and meal service sectors. With a focus on delivering high-quality Cook Freeze solutions, Zerokara stands as a dedicated partner from the evaluation stage to operational support.

Location: Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
Founded: November 1, 2017
Official Website: Zerokara