Food service company, BonCulina, has launched in Australia, supplying a meal range specifically designed for healthcare and aged care sectors. BonCulina is working with Sunshine Private Hospital (SPH), which is owned by Unitas Healthcare.
BonCulina Australia MD, Joe Ivisic, told Food & Drink Business that the company’s presence in the UK spurred its expansion into the Australian market due to language and cultural similarities.
“BonCulina wanted to enter the market with small private healthcare providers who are willing to serve as an early adopter giving feedback and ensuring the introduction is successful.
“SPH has been a great launch partner for us, and we are proud of delivering first class meals plated with the Torus Pak technology enhancing patient dining experience and nutrition.
“This collaboration has been foundational in shaping a meal service that is not just about serving food but enhancing the overall well-being of those in care,” Ivisic said.
The meal range includes texture modified meals fully compliant with the IDDSI framework, as well as allergen-friendly, Halal and Kosher options. The new line-up offers an extensive selection of main dishes including beef, lamb, pork, poultry, fish, vegan, and vegetarian options, complemented by a variety of soups and desserts.
While in its UK operation BonCulina produces most of its meals in its own production kitchen in Colchester, Essex, in Australia the company is working with several contract kitchens rather than producing the meals in-house.
Ivisic said quality is ensured by its food council, which use “rigorous protocols” to ensure quality, presentation, flavour, and dietetics.
Torus Pak is a recyclable packaging made of food-grade poly propylene. The meal tray can be individually filled, laid out as if on a plate. According to the company it is compatible with “almost every” packaging line, and to serve, it simply needs to be warmed through and the base of the packaging pulled off, leaving a plated meal on the serving plate.
BonCulina has an exclusive partnership with Torus Pak, saying the system provided convenience, precise recipe control, and a reduction in labour costs and meal preparation time.
