FIVE fish and chip shops around the district are leading the way in providing healthier, tastier chips.

And that won’t just be good for customers – it should also boost the businesses’ profits.

The five shops are the first to sign up to the new Tips on Chips scheme launched by Fenland District Council last week. It is hoped that others will follow their example.

Those that have joined the scheme so far are: The Jolly Fryer, Wisbech; The Codfather, Wisbech St Mary; The Little Fryer, March; Chippy Sue’s, Whittlesey; and Friday Bridge Fish Bar, Friday Bridge.

They have introduced simple changes to the way they produce their chips to reduce the saturated fat and salt content. These include using thick straight-cut chips, cooking them quickly, shaking and draining them after frying and maintaining the cooking oil in good condition.

Salt dispensers also have fewer holes so customers can add less salt. All this means they will also save money by using considerably less oil and salt and still serve healthy, wholesome chips.

They will also offer smaller portions if customers request them.

Debra Bodger, FDC’s senior environmental health officer, said: “Chips are one of our most popular takeaway foods, so it’s obviously sensible to make them as healthy as possible – and cooking them this way makes them taste better, too. That’s obviously great for customers and businesses benefit by cutting their costs, so everyone’s a winner.”

The Tips on Chips scheme is backed by the Food Standards Agency. Businesses that join it can display the Tips on Chips sticker and certificate to show they are following the FSA guidance.

Any food businesses can join. For more information, they should call FDC’s Environmental Health team on 01354 654321 or e-mail envhealth@fenland.gov.uk. Alternatively, they can ask for information at their next routine food safety inspection.