What’s inside this buyer’s guide

 

1. Introduction
2. Types of food processors
3. Food processors vs blenders
4. Food processor motors
5. Other features to consider
6. Types of food processor discs and blades
7. Best commercial food processors
8. Used commercial food processors — worth considering?
9. Frequently asked questions
10. Food processors glossary
11. Keep your cash, use ours!

 

If you're running a commercial kitchen, you know that efficiency and precision are key to delivering delicious meals to your customers.

That's where a high-quality food processor comes in.

With their ability to slice, dice, grind, and puree, these machines are crucial tools for any professional chef.

In this guide, we'll explore the top features to look for when selecting a commercial food processor, and some of the best options available in the market today.

Let's get started!

 

Types of food processors

To make an informed decision about the industrial food processor that best suits your requirements, it is essential to understand the various types available and their distinct features.

So, let's delve into the intricacies of these machines and explore their unique characteristics.

 

Batch bowl

• Crafted to process food in a spacious, enclosed bowl, with capacities typically ranging from 2 to 5 litres.
• Equipped with a range of cutting options, including chopping, grating, slicing, and shredding, thanks to the availability of multiple blade/disk attachments.
• Renowned for delivering consistent and uniform results, a vital aspect in maintaining culinary excellence in a commercial kitchen.
• Perfectly suited for recipes that demand precise processing durations or seamless blending of ingredients, making it an indispensable tool for creating exquisite soups, sauces, and marinades.

 

Continuous feed

• Facilitates continuous processing of food as it is fed through a chute, efficiently directing the output into a separate container, which helps streamline the workflow.
• Renowned for its rapid processing speed, it guarantees consistent cuts while effortlessly handling substantial quantities of food.
• Particularly well-suited for repetitive tasks like cheese shredding or vegetable slicing for large-scale batches, optimizing efficiency in a high-volume culinary environment.

 

Combination (batch bowl & continuous feed head)

• An ingenious hybrid design combining the best of both batch bowl and continuous feed processors, offering unrivalled versatility to meet a wide range of culinary requirements.
• The adaptability to switch seamlessly between batch and continuous processing lets you efficiently handle varying volume needs.
• A true asset for commercial kitchens with diverse menus, accommodating the demands of different food processing tasks with utmost efficiency.

 

Bowl choppers (Buffalo choppers)

• Boasts a rotating bowl and horizontal blades, purpose-built for precise chopping and blending operations.
• Operates at high speeds, granting exceptional control over the desired coarseness or fineness of the chopping process.
• With generous capacities, often reaching up to 14 litres, these powerful choppers effortlessly handle heavy-duty chopping tasks, especially for meats, vegetables, and coarse spreads or pâtés.

 

Vertical cutter mixers (VCM)

• Distinguished by a spacious vertical mixing bowl and high-speed rotating blades.
• These machines operate at remarkable speeds, excelling in rapidly chopping, pureeing, blending, and mixing substantial quantities of ingredients.
• With impressive capacities of up to 30 litres, they prove to be ideal for preparing generous batches of foods, such as salad dressings, or kneading dough in commercial bakeries and pizzerias.
• Many Vertical Cutting Mixers (VCMs) provide variable speed options and a "pulse" function, granting precise control over the processing tasks at hand.

 

 

Food processors vs blenders

Choosing the correct equipment for your commercial kitchen is essential for efficient and precise food preparation.

While blenders and food processors can sometimes overlap in functionality, referring to the table below provides a clear comparison of their features and capabilities.

This will help you make an informed decision and select the equipment that best suits your needs, ensuring outstanding results in your culinary pursuits.

 

Features	Food Processors	Blenders
Functionality	Highly versatile, with a range of functions like chopping, slicing, grating, pureeing, and kneading.	Mainly used for blending, pureeing, and emulsifying ingredients.
Blade types	Equipped with interchangeable blades for various functions. Some models also come with additional attachments for kneading dough or making pasta.	Typically feature a fixed blade at the bottom of the jar, powered by a high-speed motor for blending. Certain high-end models may offer interchangeable blades.
Capacity	Available in different sizes, often larger than blenders, with capacities typically ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 litres in most models.	Usually smaller than food processors, with capacities ranging from 1 to 2 litres in most models.
Consistency	Capable of processing a wide range of textures, from coarse chopping to fine mincing or pureeing.	Best suited for achieving smooth and liquid textures, ideal for soups, smoothies, and sauces.
Food type	Suitable for processing both soft and hard foods, including vegetables, nuts, and dough.	Excels in processing liquids and softer ingredients. Not recommended for hard items like coffee beans or nuts, unless it’s a high-power model.
Design	Typically characterized by a broader and shorter build, it accommodates larger food items.	Generally designed to be taller and narrower, encouraging ingredients to be drawn down towards the blades for a seamless blend.
Cleaning	Most parts are detachable and dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.	Generally easier to clean due to their simpler construction, although attention should be paid to cleaning around the blades.

 

 

 

Food processor motors

Motor power is a vital aspect of commercial food processors in Canadian kitchens.

With power ranging from 0.5 to 3 horsepower (370 to 2000 watts), higher wattage enables efficient processing of various ingredients.

This table summarizes the motor power ranges commonly found in commercial food processors:

 

Motor power range	Horsepower range	Wattage range
Low	0.5 - 0.75 horsepower	370 - 560 watts
Medium	0.75 - 1.5 horsepower	560 - 1125 watts
High	1.5 - 3 horsepower	1125 - 2000 watts

 

 

 

Other features to consider

To make an informed decision when selecting a commercial food processor, it is important to examine the finer details of various features.

Factors such as bowl material, hopper style, controls and speeds, RPM, and noise level play a pivotal role in influencing performance and creating a harmonious working environment in your commercial kitchen.

Let's explore these features, understand their importance, and help you confidently choose the right equipment.

 

Speed settings and RPM

Commercial food processors are equipped with a range of speed settings and revolutions per minute (RPM) options, carefully designed to meet the diverse needs of chefs and kitchen professionals.

These features play a pivotal role in ensuring precise and consistent results in culinary preparations.

By understanding the nuances of speed settings and RPM options, you can unleash the full potential of your commercial food processor, elevating your culinary creations to new levels of excellence.

 

Speed Settings

Variable speed

Commercial food processors are frequently equipped with adjustable speed settings, enabling chefs to customize the processing speed based on specific recipe demands.

This versatility lets you achieve greater control and precision, so you can get the desired textures and consistencies with finesse.

Fixed speed

Certain models feature fixed speed settings, often providing two or three pre-set speed levels.

These options prioritize simplicity and user-friendliness, ensuring reliable performance at a consistent speed throughout culinary preparations.

 

Revolutions per Minute (RPM)

RPM Range

The RPM range of commercial food processors typically falls between 1500 and 2600.

This denotes the rotational speed of the processor's blades or discs, influencing its performance.

Fine chopping and blending

Higher RPM settings, ranging from 2000 to 2600, excel at tasks requiring fine chopping and blending.

These speeds ensure precise processing, resulting in smooth textures and finely chopped ingredients that meet the highest culinary standards.

Coarse cutting

Lower RPM settings, typically around 1500 to 1800, are more suitable for coarse cutting tasks.

This speed range enables the processor to handle tougher ingredients, delivering coarser cuts and textures that are ideal for specific recipes and culinary preferences within Canadian commercial kitchens.

 

Bowl material

As a chef, selecting the right bowl material for your commercial food processor is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the quality and consistency of your dishes.

Each bowl material has its unique advantages, and understanding them is essential to make an informed decision.

 

Clear plastic bowl

Clear plastic bowls offer the advantage of transparency, allowing you to visually monitor the progress without lifting the lid.

This feature is particularly useful when aiming for precise textures or consistency in culinary creations.

Commonly used in commercial kitchens, they excel at tasks such as emulsifying dressings, creating smooth purees, and preparing visually appealing layered desserts.

 

Grey plastic bowl

Grey plastic bowls are highly regarded for their durability, versatility, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness.

Crafted from high-quality food-grade materials, they can withstand the demanding nature of busy food preparation environments.

Their resistance to stains and odours ensures long-lasting performance and easy clean-up, making them a reliable choice.

 

Stainless Steel Bowl

Stainless steel bowls can safely handle hot or acidic ingredients without leaching chemicals.

They provide excellent heat retention and boast a sleek and professional appearance.

With easy cleaning and maintenance, stainless steel bowls offer longevity and a polished aesthetic desired by chefs seeking durability and elegance.

 

 

Bowl capacity

The bowl capacity of a commercial food processor plays an important role in optimizing efficiency and productivity within restaurant kitchens.

Here's why it holds such significance:

 

• Handling volume: A generous bowl capacity reduces the need for multiple batches, saving precious time and enhancing overall productivity.

 

• Time and labour savings: With a spacious bowl, chefs can process larger quantities of ingredients in a single operation, streamlining food preparation and minimizing manual labour.

 

• Consistent results: Ample bowl space ensures even processing, promoting consistent texture and quality across batches.

 

• Task-specific capacities: Consider the capacities that align with your specific culinary tasks. Smaller capacities (1.5-2.5 litres) excel in sauces and dressings, while larger capacities (3-6 litres) prove ideal for dough kneading or processing larger quantities in bulk.

 

 

Hopper style

The hopper is an integral part of a commercial food processor as it determines how ingredients are processed, affecting both efficiency and ingredient compatibility.

Here are some hopper styles to consider when choosing the right food processor for your needs.

 

Bulk feed hopper

Characterized by its spacious capacity and wide opening, the bulk feed hopper lets you process a substantial amount of ingredients at once.

This style excels in handling high-volume food preparation and is ideal for processing large quantities of fruits, vegetables and more.

The bulk feed hopper enables efficient and continuous feeding, minimizing the need for frequent ingredient reloading, making it highly advantageous in busy commercial kitchens.

 

Full moon hopper

Also known as a round hopper, the full moon hopper features a round wide opening. It is specifically designed to accommodate larger or bulkier ingredients, such as whole fruits or vegetables.

With ample space for easy loading and processing, this hopper style is commonly used in commercial food processors for tasks that involve slicing or grating large fruits or vegetables, or preparing bulk quantities of salad ingredients.

 

Half moon hopper

Referred to as a crescent hopper, the half moon hopper has a semi-circular shape with a narrow opening compared to the full moon hopper.

This design enables controlled feeding and precise processing of smaller or more delicate ingredients.

It is particularly suitable for tasks that require precision slicing, dicing, or julienning of ingredients.

The half moon hopper provides stability and control during the processing of smaller or irregularly shaped ingredients, making it an excellent choice for creating uniform cuts and achieving fine textures in commercial food preparation.

 

 

Noise levels

Have you ever been in a commercial kitchen where the food processor sounds like a jet engine, drowning out all other noise?

Well, the good news is that you don't have to put up with it anymore!

The secret to a quieter food processor lies in understanding the factors that contribute to noise levels.

The power of the motor, blade design, and overall construction all play a crucial role in determining how loud your food processor will be.

High-powered motors and high-speed blades tend to be noisier, while vibrations and resonances can amplify the sound.

To combat this, manufacturers incorporate sound-dampening materials, anti-vibration mechanisms, and improved motor designs to reduce noise levels.

Additionally, regular maintenance, lubrication, and inspection of the food processor can also contribute to noise reduction.

 

 

 

Types of food processor discs and blades

Now that you have a handle on the different types of food processors and important features to consider, let's shift our focus to another crucial aspect: blades and discs.

These components are vital to the performance and versatility of food processors, enabling precise cutting, chopping, slicing, and more.

In this section, we will discuss the various types and styles of blades and discs used in commercial food preparation.

We will explore their specific functions and how they are applied, providing useful information to enhance your culinary skills.

                                                            

Smooth blades

 

These primary blades are perfect for general chopping, pureeing, and blending tasks.

They excel at creating smooth sauces, dips, and dressings.

 

 

Serrated blades

 

Equipped with small, sharp teeth along the edge, excel at effortlessly slicing through tougher ingredients such as bread or fibrous vegetables.

These blades provide clean and precise cuts without crushing the food, ensuring optimal texture and presentation in your culinary endeavours.

 

 

Perforated blades

Equipped with evenly spaced holes, perforated blades ensure precise slicing while preventing sticking or jamming.

They are commonly used for delicate foods like tomatoes or soft fruits.

 

Slicing discs

 

Slicing discs offer adjustable or interchangeable blades that allow for precise thickness control.

They effortlessly slice through a wide range of ingredients, ensuring consistent results.

 

Julienne discs

 

Julienne discs feature sharp blades that are evenly spaced, allowing you to effortlessly create thin strips or matchstick cuts.

These discs are ideal for preparing uniform vegetable strips, perfect for salads, stir-fries, or garnishes.

 

 

Grating/shredding discs

 

Grating/shredding discs come in various sizes to quickly process ingredients like cheese, vegetables, or chocolate.

They offer versatility in creating different textures for a wide range of recipes.

 

 

Brunoise discs

 

Brunoise discs specialize in creating small, uniform cubes or dice.

They are ideal for precise and consistent cuts, commonly used for fruits, vegetables, or garnishes.

 

 

Whipping discs

 

Whipping discs transform your food processor into a whipping powerhouse, perfect for whipping cream, beating egg whites, or creating light and fluffy mousses.

 

 

Gaufrette/waffle discs

 

Gaufrette or waffle discs are designed to create waffle-cut slices or crinkle-cut edges, enhancing the visual appeal of your dishes.

These discs are commonly used for firm vegetables like potatoes or carrots, adding an extra touch of creativity and texture to your culinary creations.

 

 

Dicing kits

 

They consist of a combination of blades and grids for quick and effortless dicing of ingredients.

With these kits, you can achieve consistent cube shapes that are perfect for salads, stews, or casseroles, ensuring uniformity in your culinary creations.

 

 

Crimping discs

 

Crimping discs create decorative crimped edges on dough, adding a professional touch to pies, pastries, or tart shells.

 

French fry kits

 

French fry kits simplify the process of making in-house French fries by quickly cutting potatoes into uniform sticks ready for frying or baking.

When selecting a food processor, consider the available discs and blades it comes with.

Different models offer varying numbers, typically ranging from 0 to 16 or more.

These discs and blades have unique capabilities, allowing you to process a wide variety of ingredients.

This versatility makes the food processor an essential and valuable tool for your kitchen.

 

 

 

Best commercial food processor Brands

Robot Coupe

 

Robot Coupe, founded in 1961 in France, has a worldwide presence, including Canada, as a leading brand in commercial food processing.

Acknowledged for its high-quality, durable and innovative food processors, Robot Coupe is trusted in the Canadian culinary industry.

Their products, recognized for efficiency and versatility, support busy commercial kitchens and enhance productivity, making Robot Coupe an indispensable partner in Canada's food service sector.

Recommended brands include the Robot Coupe CL 50E, a continuous feed food processor with a 1-speed operation at 425 RPM and a powerful 1.5 HP motor.

For smaller-scale needs, consider the Robot Coupe R2B, a 3-quart food processor with a handle and smooth "S" blade assembly.

Shop Robot Coupe food processors now.

 

 

Hobart

 

Hobart, established in the late 19th century, is a leading name in the foodservice industry, including commercial food processors in Canada.

Its prominence comes from superior engineering, robust construction, and energy-efficient designs. Offering reliable, durable, and user-friendly products, Hobart supports high-volume kitchens while emphasizing sustainability, aligning with Canada's eco-friendly ethos.

Recommended models include the FP100, a continuous-feed food processor featuring a large, removable half-size feed hopper, all-aluminum hopper and housing, and an interlock switch for safety.

Another option is the FP400i, a continuous-feed food processor with a two-speed motor. It offers a triple hopper/cover interlock system and four legs (two stationary front legs and two rear legs with casters) for easy mobility.

Shop Hobart commercial food processors now.

 

Sammic

 

Sammic, established in 1961 in Spain, has become a global authority in foodservice equipment, including in the Canadian market.

Known for innovative, efficient designs, Sammic's commercial food processors are robust and reliable.

With a focus on technology, Sammic delivers superior performance while prioritizing energy efficiency.

Its commitment to quality and usability makes it a trusted choice for Canada's diverse, high-volume foodservice environments.

Recommended models include the Sammic KE-5V, a variable-speed emulsifier with a powerful 3 HP motor for quick chopping and mixing.

It offers adjustable speeds from 300 to 3,000 RPM, a stainless steel motor block, 5.5-litre stainless steel hopper, serrated 'S' blade, and a "cut and mix" scraper.

Another option is the Sammic CK-5V, a countertop vegetable prep slicer processor featuring brushless technology and a robust 3 HP motor.

Shop Sammic food processors now.

 

 

Waring

 

Waring, founded in 1937, is a pioneer in the American foodservice industry, with significant influence in Canada.

Its commercial food processors are prized for their innovative design, robust construction, and powerful performance.

Waring integrates advanced technology with practical user-friendly features, ensuring durability and efficiency.

A trusted name for rigorous commercial environments, Waring ensures high-quality food preparation while enhancing operational productivity.

Recommended brands include the Waring Commercial WFP11S, a versatile batch bowl food processor with slicing, shredding, puréeing, and chopping capabilities.

Its completely sealed 2.5-quart batch bowl is ideal for soups, sauces, and marinades.

Another option is the Waring Commercial FP2200, capable of processing up to 1,400 pounds per hour. It includes 5 discs (2 slicing, 2 dicing, and 1 shredding) and an "S" blade, making it perfect for high-volume kitchens in need of versatility.

Shop Waring commercial food processors now.

 

Omcan

 

Omcan, since its inception in 1951, has evolved into a key player in the foodservice industry, making a mark in the Canadian market.

Omcan's commercial food processors are noted for their robustness, efficiency, and versatility.

The brand combines state-of-the-art technology with durable materials, producing equipment that withstands high-volume usage.

By offering dependable, user-friendly solutions, Omcan supports diverse foodservice requirements while championing operational efficacy.

Recommended models include the Omcan FP-IT-0003, featuring a 3 qt. bowl, a 0.4 horsepower motor, and a set of blades at the bottom for efficient processing. Its single-speed motor operates at 2,800 RPM.

For larger-scale needs, consider the Omcan FP-IT-0009-VT with a 9 qt. bowl, a powerful 1 horsepower motor, and a set of blades for thorough processing. Its motor offers two speeds ranging from 600 to 2,800 RPM.

Shop Omcan commercial food processors now.

 

 

 

Used commercial food processor – worth considering?

Spending thousands of dollars on a new commercial food processor can put a strain on your budget and cash flow.

If you’d prefer not to invest a lot of money in a commercial food processor, a cheaper, pre-owned appliance might be the solution you’re looking for.

SilverChef’s range of ‘Certified Used’ commercial equipment is mostly ex-rental equipment sourced from businesses we know and trust.

The equipment is typically less than two-and-a-half years old, has been fully refurbished by us, and is backed by a three-month parts-and-labour warranty.

Considering the effective, or useful, life of a commercial food processor is around 10 years, you can be sure our Certified Used commercial food processors have plenty of life left in it.

You can either buy or finance the ‘Certified Used’ (and clearance) equipment on our website.

We’re one of the few financiers, if not the only one, in Canada that funds second-hand commercial kitchen equipment.

Read more about ‘Certified Used’ equipment

 

 

Commercial food processor frequently asked questions

What is a food processor used for?

While the question may seem straightforward, it continues to be frequently asked due to the varying levels of familiarity with the full capabilities of commercial food processors.

This powerful kitchen appliance holds untapped potential that even experienced restaurateurs may not fully explore.

Beyond their basic functions, food processors offer remarkable versatility that enhances efficiency and unlocks creative culinary possibilities in a commercial kitchen.

Dough kneading

Food processors can efficiently knead dough for bread or pastries, saving valuable time and effort.

Emulsifying ingredients

They excel at emulsifying ingredients to create smooth vinaigrettes, aioli, or mayonnaise, ensuring consistent texture.

Fresh juice extraction

Certain food processors come with attachments for extracting fresh juice from citrus fruits, providing preservative-free options.

Texture control

With adjustable speed settings, chefs can effortlessly achieve desired textures, from coarse chopping to fine mincing.

Additional attachments

Food processors can be equipped with attachments for tasks such as grating cheese or shredding vegetables, streamlining your meal prep.

 

Can food processor be used as a blender?

Yes, a food processor can serve as a blender with the appropriate attachments.

However, it is important to understand the distinction between their intended functions.

While a food processor is capable of handling some blending tasks, its primary strengths lie in chopping, slicing, and grating ingredients.

If your focus is on achieving consistent textures and smooth blending, particularly in industries like smoothie bars or establishments that prioritize fine purees, investing in a dedicated blender is recommended.

On the other hand, for industries where versatility and space-saving are paramount, such as small cafes, utilizing a food processor with blender capabilities can offer a practical solution.

The decision should be based on the specific requirements and priorities of your establishment, ensuring optimal results in your culinary endeavours.

 

What features should I look for in a commercial food processor?

When in the market for a commercial food processor, explore distinctive features that align precisely with your kitchen's unique requirements.

These encompass:

Speeds

Choose processors with on/off and pulse settings to ensure precise control. Some models offer high and low pulse settings for efficient chopping tasks.

Multifunctional accessories

Make sure the processor comes with shredding and slicing disks, and check if it offers additional attachments like a juicer or interchangeable blades for versatile food processing.

Dough blade

For those regularly working with dough, a processor with a dedicated dough blade can enhance performance and consistency in kneading tasks.

Touchpad controls

Go for processors equipped with touchpad controls, providing a sleek and modern interface that is easy to clean.

Liquid 'max' line

To prevent overfilling and potential leaks, opt for processors that feature a distinct 'Max' line on their mixing bowl.

Storage case

Take into account the models that provide a storage case as part of their package, offering a practical solution for keeping blades and accessories organized and easily accessible.

Feed tube

Save time and effort by selecting processors with a wide feed tube, allowing you to process larger food items without the need for pre-cutting.

 

Elevate your kitchen's performance with a commercial food processor that integrates these essential features, enabling culinary excellence and unmatched efficiency that will distinguish your establishment from the competition.

 

 

 

Commercial food processor glossary

Pulse function

A control setting that delivers a burst of power for a short duration, allowing more precise control over the processing.

Ideal for roughly chopping ingredients or blending delicate items.

 

S-blade

The most common blade type in a food processor, shaped like an 'S'. It's ideal for chopping, mincing, and pureeing ingredients.

 

Dough blade

A special type of blade, with short blunt arms, designed for kneading dough. It's typically made of plastic, unlike other metal blades.

 

Feed tube

The chute through which food is added into the food processor. It comes in different styles and sizes based on the model.

 

Induction motor

A type of motor known for its sturdiness and endurance.

It operates more silently and has a longer lifespan than universal motors.

 

Direct drive motor

A direct drive motor configuration places the motor directly beneath the bowl, enabling efficient power transfer.

This design optimizes the performance of the food processor, ensuring consistent and reliable operation for various culinary tasks.

 

Clutch

A mechanism that unlocks the motor when the lid is open or not properly secured, serving as a vital safety feature.

 

 

Keep your cash. Use ours!

Hospitality equipment can be expensive and paying for it outright can put pressure on your business’s cash flow.

Our finance solutions allow you to get the equipment you want now and to pay for it in small, regular amounts out of the revenue it helps generates.

Rent–Try–Buy® not only helps you maintain your cash flow, it also gives you unrivalled flexibility to adapt your equipment to the changing needs of your business.

You can upgrade or buy the equipment at any time or, after 12 months, return or continue renting it.

If you decide to buy the equipment, we’ll give you back 60% of the net rent you paid in the first year and 20% of any rental payments thereafter — to put toward the purchase price.

Read more about Rent–Try–Buy.