Alto-Shaam teams up with The Burnt Chef Project to promote mental health awareness across the hospitality industry

Alto-Shaam has announced a new partnership with The Burnt Chef Project to support the charity’s mission to tackle the stigma around mental health in the hospitality industry.  

The Burnt Chef Project’s research suggests that as many as four out of five professionals working within the industry experience mental health challenges during their career. In response, the charity was set up in 2019 to raise awareness and challenge attitudes towards mental health, providing support, training and delivering tailored educational programs across the hospitality industry.  

Alto-Shaam is supporting the Project through a $15,000 global partnership that will begin at the North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers (NAFEM) show from February 26-28 in Atlanta, Georgia. 

Throughout the show, award-winning Chef and Chief Ambassador for The Burnt Chef Project, Imrun Teixeira, will be working alongside Alto-Shaam chefs during live cooking demonstrations, sharing the importance of mental health awareness and resources within the hospitality industry. The Burnt Chef Project team will also be in the booth during the show, answering questions and sharing resources for industry peers.  

“As a leader in the foodservice equipment industry, I believe that it’s not just our products that can make a difference, but also our commitment to supporting those who utilize them,” said Steve Maahs, CEO at Alto-Shaam. “Partnering with The Burnt Chef Project allows us to contribute to a vital cause that fosters resilience and empowers individuals to be their best selves. Together, we can build a healthier, more supportive community, and it’s a privilege to be part of this positive change.” 

“Mental health challenges are a reality for the majority of hospitality professionals, yet stigma and lack of support often prevent open conversations,” said Kris Hall, Founder & CEO of the Burnt Chef Project.  “Our partnership with Alto-Shaam is a crucial step in changing that narrative. With their global reach and commitment to industry well-being, we can extend our support network, provide essential education, and ensure that mental health is prioritized just as much as physical health in professional kitchens. Together, we’re working towards a healthier, more sustainable future for hospitality.” 

About The Burnt Chef Project 

The Burnt Chef Project was founded in 2019 with a mission to confront and address challenges head-on, burning the silence surrounding mental health in the hospitality sector and providing tangible tools and resources to tackle the alarmingly high rates of mental illness within the sector. 

8 out of 10 OF HOSPITALITY PROFESSIONALS REPORT EXPERIENCING POOR MENTAL HEALTH 

The purpose of the Burnt Chef Project is to eradicate mental health stigma in the hospitality industry, providing education, resources, and support to professionals at all levels. 

This includes a variety of resources: 

Business Services  

Consumer Services  

Charitable Services 

By fostering open conversations about mental health, delivering tailored training, and creating a community of support, the Burnt Chef Project aims to create a safer, more sustainable working environment where individuals can thrive both personally and professionally. 

Ultimately, the project seeks to improve the overall well-being of hospitality workers, ensuring that they can pursue their passion for the industry without sacrificing their mental health.