Supplier Spotlight: Olymel
Olymel is one of Canada’s leading poultry suppliers. As a preferred vendor of Foodbuy Canada Olymel products are being featured over the holiday season and into the new year.
Turkey is a wonderful, although arguably underutilized, protein option for all dayparts throughout the year – it’s not just for holidays! We asked David Capobianco, Director of Sales for Olymel Food Service, about turkey’s position in the marketplace. “I believe one of the biggest misconceptions about turkey is that you need to deal with a whole bird and figure out how to use it. Today, that’s not the case; Olymel offers a wide variety of turkey products that simplify things for operators and support numerous culinary applications”.
Turkey represents a specialized category among the diverse range of proteins. Considering the rising cost of most proteins, turkey is a fantastic alternative that offers high protein, low fat, and great value. In addition, turkey is an incredibly versatile menu option that may be enjoyed in countless dishes beyond the traditional center of the plate. Dishes may be elevated to a more premium option with the addition of some culinary flair or dressed down through the incorporation of turkey in popular everyday dishes, from sandwiches and salads to soups and casseroles. Want a change from the same old same old? Consider throwing a juicy turkey burger on the grill for a summer BBQ or whipping up a hearty chili chock-full of autumn vegetables using Olymel’s extra lean ground turkey. It is easy to pair turkey with different seasonings and ingredients, allowing for endless meal possibilities year-round.
Chef Marc Laroche
Olymel’s Corporate Chef Marc Laroche adds “We have a wide range available from raw, to par fried, to fully cooked, and ready-to-use products that you simply heat and serve. We are seeing substitutions with turkey instead of other proteins in several recipes such as tacos, burritos, chilies and meatballs”. Larger chain restaurants are taking note as they are adding turkey to innovative and healthy menu choices.
Ready-to-use products address the labour shortages currently impacting many sectors of business, particularly in senior living homes, quick-serve restaurants and higher education. These solutions not only streamline meal preparation but also provide significant time and cost savings, making them an excellent choice for operational efficiencies without compromising quality and nutritional benefits.
Cindy Clarke, Account Manager – National and Non-Commercial Food Service at Olymel, highlights the growth in the turkey category by commenting “We are witnessing an increase in the demand for turkey in the healthcare and campus sectors”. Turkey is a great choice for students that are looking for healthier options. Further, known as a ‘power protein’, turkey is nutrient-rich particularly in iron, zinc, Vitamin B12, Niacin, Selenium, Potassium and Phosphorus – and it’s naturally low in sodium. Cindy continues, “In the healthcare sector they are now adding turkey on the menu once a week, depending on the service provider”.
Olymel products make it easy for operators to incorporate turkey into their menus. As the demand for healthy and cost-effective alternatives rises, turkey stands out as a valuable option that can replace or complement traditional protein offerings. As more establishments recognize the benefits of turkey, its popularity is set to grow, paving the way for exciting culinary possibilities in the future. Turkey is a healthy protein that fits well into any menu!
The current Foodbuy promotion, which runs until January 31st, 2025, offers extended rebates on Olymel’s complete portfolio of turkey products. Please reach out to your account manager for specific details.