Listen to the full episode of this Vegan Bytes podcast episode here:
https://veganbytes.podbean.com/e/kernel-the-robotic-revolution-in-fast-food/
FULL TRANSCRIPT:
Welcome to Vegan Bytes, your two-minute window into the world of veganism and animal rights. Today, we're talking about a new veggie restaurant chain that's set to revolutionize the fast-food industry.
Steve Ells, the founder of Chipotle, is launching Kernel, a meatless restaurant concept that uses robot chefs to minimize waste and ensure food safety. Inspired by Bill Gates' book "How to Avoid a Climate Disaster," Ells is taking a stand against the meat industry, which contributes to 60% of all food emissions.
Kernel's unique selling point? Robots. These automated chefs will do the bulk of the cooking, with only three human employees needed per location. This not only ensures better food safety standards but also significantly reduces waste.
Picture this: you place your order, and a robotic arm swings into action, placing a pan with your food in the oven. A programmed toaster warms your bun, and a conveyor belt moves your dishes along. The human touch comes in at the end, with employees adding the final touches and packaging your food for pickup.
Ells' vision for Kernel is to focus on whole foods like legumes and vegetables, rather than plant-based meat alternatives. He's even roped in Andrew Black, a former chef at New York's now-mostly-vegan restaurant Eleven Madison Park, to develop plant-based sandwiches and sides for the menu.
The first Kernel location is set to open in Manhattan in 2024, with plans to open 15 more in New York City in the following years. And while Kernel will have fewer employees than its counterparts, it plans to invest its savings into higher wages and better benefits for its staff.
So, next time you're in the Big Apple, keep an eye out for Kernel. It's not just a restaurant; it's a glimpse into the future of fast food.
That's all for today's episode of Vegan Bytes. Remember, every small step towards a vegan lifestyle is a giant leap for our planet. Stay tuned for more vegan news and insights.