Introduce yourself and tell us what you do!
I’m Charlotte Langley a Canadian Celebrity Chef with a reputation for thinking outside the box both from a culinary and business perspective. I founded Scout Canning in 2014 and commercialized with my partners in 2018. Scout crafts delicious seafood and my culinary skills are at the heart of my work. Creating, Directing and Crafting culinary innovations as well as advocating for Ocean and Waterways Stewardship are my passions.
Can you share the story behind the inception of Scout Canning? What inspired you to revive the tradition of seafood canning and make it accessible to modern home cooks?
The inception of Scout Canning was born out of a deep-rooted passion for ocean stewardship and culinary craftsmanship. I was inspired by the timeless art of seafood canning, a tradition that once thrived but had been mostly overlooked in modern times. Seeing the disconnect between the bounties of our ocean and the methods in which they were being harvested and prepared, I saw an opportunity to infuse a sustainable practice with gastronomic flair.
As someone deeply entrenched in the culinary world, I recognized the growing trend toward ethical sourcing and sustainable practices, yet the canning industry seemed stuck in the past. I wanted to revitalize this technique in a way that would resonate with the values and palate of contemporary consumers. More than that, I wanted to create a product that was as good for the planet as it was delectable.
Scout Canning became a marriage of these ideals—a venture to bring the ocean's riches to the tables of modern home cooks while prioritizing sustainable practices. It has allowed me to combine my love for the culinary arts with the need for ocean and waterways stewardship, making it more than just a business, but a love affair with food and conservation.
And so, each can that leaves our establishment is not just a meal; it's a chapter in a love story between culinary heritage and ecological mindfulness.
What are your non-negotiable morning rituals Before Life Happens?
My mornings start with a focused and calm mindset. I review my daily goals, ensuring I’m aligned with my business and culinary endeavours as well as preparing for what the day can bring. Day to day is different for me as I provide a range of offerings in my professions. A nutritious breakfast and a quick swim is my preference to help me energize for the day.
Sustainability is a central focus of Scout Canning. Could you explain your commitment to responsible seafood sourcing and how it's integrated into your products and practices?
Absolutely. Sustainability isn't just a buzzword at Scout Canning; it's the backbone of our business philosophy. From day one, the focus has been on crafting a product that not only delights the palate but also respects the planet. Our commitment to responsible seafood sourcing is an ethical imperative, deeply ingrained in every aspect of our operation.
We diligently work with fishermen and suppliers who adhere to sustainable practices, ensuring that our seafood is harvested with minimal impact on marine ecosystems. It's not just about the catch; it's about how the catch is made. Our sourcing is guided by stringent criteria, aligned with global sustainability standards and often surpassing them.
The products themselves reflect this commitment. Each can of Scout Canning seafood serves as an ambassador of our core values. The quality, texture, and taste are designed to be a gastronomic experience that educates consumers about the merits of responsible sourcing. With each bite, we hope to not only satisfy culinary cravings but also cultivate awareness about ocean conservation.
We're not just selling cans of seafood; we're offering a tangible connection to our oceans and their well-being. Every can purchased becomes a vote for sustainable fishing practices and the responsible management of our aquatic resources.
Our commitment extends beyond the product and into our everyday practices—from waste reduction in production to educating our customers about the importance of sustainable choices. We see ourselves as part of a larger ecosystem, both culinary and ecological, and take our role in it seriously.
So when you enjoy a Scout Canning product, you're not just indulging in exceptional seafood; you're participating in a larger mission—one that seeks to harmonize culinary delight with ecological integrity.
Developing and perfecting recipes can be a labor of love. Can you tell us about your journey in perfecting the Scout’s recipes over the years?
The journey to perfect Scout Canning's recipes has been a profound labor of love, a fascinating blend of culinary artistry and business acumen. Each recipe encapsulates not just flavors and textures, but also a deep respect for our marine resources and the traditions that have honored them for generations.
When I set out to develop the product line, the challenge was multi-dimensional. It wasn't just about creating a delicious product; it was about crafting a culinary experience that paid homage to sustainable sourcing and traditional canning techniques. Years of culinary experience had prepared me for this endeavor, but it was a continuously evolving process involving research, experimentation, and countless hours in the kitchen.
I relied heavily on my background in culinary arts and product development to strike a balance between innovation and authenticity. Various iterations were made to tweak the seasoning, improve the texture, and ensure that each ingredient used was ethically sourced. Throughout this, the guiding principle remained the same: to honor the intrinsic flavors of the seafood and enhance them just enough to elevate the experience, without overshadowing the ingredient's natural essence.
I also sought input from an array of stakeholders—from fishermen and suppliers to chefs and consumers—to ensure that each recipe would meet the expectations of a discerning audience. This collaborative approach made the process more enriching and rewarding, allowing the recipes to evolve organically while staying true to our core values.
Perfecting these recipes also involved rigorous quality assurance and testing, an area where my business development skills played a critical role. Ensuring that the finalized recipes could be consistently reproduced at scale without compromising on quality was a significant milestone in the journey.
Every can that leaves our facility is a testament to this meticulous process of creation and refinement. Each recipe is not merely a combination of ingredients but a narrative that weaves together sustainability, culinary tradition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
What other self-care practices do you have that support you in feeling your best?
Self-care is vital in my busy life. Regular swims in the pristine Canadian waters keep me connected to my love for the ocean. I also make time for strategic planning sessions to nurture my startup and business growth opportunities. I also take a lot of time in preparing myself for things that are of top priority to me. I don’t take my responsibilities for granted and I want to be ready and prepared thoughtfully to fully support and engage in my day to day. Ritual helps keep me loved and mindful of my actions.
How do you end your day?
My day often concludes with a moment of solitude and reflection, best enjoyed in the comfort of a warm tub. It serves as a pause, a break from the bustling world of culinary innovation and business development. Afterwards, I find myself back in the kitchen, where a simple yet carefully crafted dish awaits, often accompanied by a glass of fine wine. It's a quiet celebration of the day's accomplishments and a nod to my passions.
Before retiring for the night, I'll usually glance over emails and jot down some thoughts for the next day's tasks, always mindful of how my dual commitments to culinary excellence and sustainability intertwine.
With that, I am ready for rest, my mind at ease and filled with plans and dreams for the days ahead. With Gratitude.