What is ChickenPieces.com?

ChickenPieces.com is a Calgary-based online marketplace that makes commercial-grade products accessible to everyone. We specialize in bulk food service supplies, medical nutrition products, hospitality essentials, cleaning supplies, and hard-to-find specialty items. Whether you're a restaurant owner, healthcare facility, Airbnb host, or individual bulk buyer, we offer competitive bulk pricing without membership fees or minimum order requirements.

Who are your customers?

We serve both B2B and B2C customers including restaurants and food service (independent restaurants, food trucks, caterers, cafes), hospitality (hotels, motels, Airbnb hosts, vacation rentals, bed & breakfasts), healthcare facilities (nursing homes, hospitals, assisted living, rehabilitation centers), bulk buyers (large families, budget-conscious consumers, preppers), and institutions (schools, corporate cafeterias, community centers).

What makes ChickenPieces.com different from competitors?

Our competitive advantages include: hard-to-find products you can't get from GFS, Sysco, or US suppliers; no membership fees unlike wholesale clubs; a strong selection of Canadian-made products; dual market access for both Canadian and American customers; no minimum order requirements; and over 15 years of experience as an established supplier.

Do you have a physical store?

We are an online-only distributor based in Calgary, Alberta. We do not have a physical retail location. All orders are placed through our website at chickenpieces.com or through our Walmart Marketplace Canada storefront.

What areas do you serve?

We ship across Canada and the United States. Our primary focus is the Canadian market, with selected products available for US customers. Note: U.S. shipments are currently paused due to tariffs. Shipping rates and delivery times vary by location.

Do I need an account to order?

No, you can checkout as a guest. However, creating an account allows you to track your order history, save payment information for faster checkout, receive personalized product recommendations, get early access to promotions, and save your shipping addresses.

Is there a minimum order requirement?

No minimum order required! While we specialize in bulk packaging, you can purchase single cases or units of most products. However, bulk purchasing provides better per-unit value and may qualify for free shipping thresholds.

Can I modify or cancel my order after placing it?

Orders can only be cancelled or modified if they haven't been processed or shipped yet. Contact us immediately at hello@chickenpieces.ca or call 1-833-462-8550 with your order number. Once an order has shipped, you must follow our return policy if you wish to return items.

How can I track my order?

Once your order ships, you'll receive a shipping confirmation email with a UPS tracking number. You can track your package through the UPS website or app. If you have an account with us, you can also view tracking information in your order history.

What are your shipping rates?

We offer free shipping on orders over $75 (before tax) within Canada. Shipping charges and taxes are calculated and displayed at checkout. Large equipment, bulky items, or deliveries to remote or limited-access locations may not qualify for free shipping. In such cases, Chicken Pieces will share shipping costs 50/50 with the customer.

How long does delivery take?

Processing time is 2-3 business days with an order cut-off time of 10:00 AM MST. Transit time within Canada is 2-6 business days. Delivery times may vary during peak seasons and to remote locations.

What carrier do you use?

We use UPS as our partnered carrier for all shipments. UPS provides reliable tracking and delivery confirmation for every order.

Do you ship to the United States?

All shipments to the United States are currently paused due to recent tariffs. We are actively working with our logistics and trade partners to restore service as soon as possible. When resumed, all customs fees, tariffs, and taxes imposed during or after shipping are the customer's responsibility.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), PayPal, Shop Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Payment is required at the time of order placement.

Do you charge tax on food items?

No! We do not charge tax on food and beverage items. This gives you significant savings compared to competitors.

Are prices in CAD or USD?

Prices on chickenpieces.com are displayed in Canadian Dollars (CAD). If you're ordering from the United States, your credit card will convert the charge to USD at your bank's exchange rate.

What is your return policy?

All claims for damaged, defective, or incorrect products MUST be reported within 48 HOURS of delivery. Claims submitted after this period are not eligible for refund, replacement, or credit. You must email hello@chickenpieces.ca or call 403-690-1089 within 48 hours, provide your order number and photos of the issue, and wait for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Do NOT return items without RMA approval.

Can I return food and beverage items?

No — all food and beverage items are FINAL SALE. Due to health, safety, and food handling regulations, we cannot accept returns on ANY food or beverage products, even if unopened. The only exception is if food items arrive damaged or incorrect — report within 48 hours for replacement or credit.

What is the restocking fee for returns?

A 30% restocking fee applies to returns not due to our error, including buyer's remorse, ordering the wrong item, products returned without authorization, items missing components, or items showing signs of use. Returns due to our error (wrong item shipped, damaged in transit) do not incur restocking fees.

How long does a refund take to process?

The complete refund process can take up to 25 business days: 3-5 business days for inspection, 5-10 business days to process the refund to your payment method, and 3-10 additional business days for your bank to post the refund. Processing times vary by financial institution.

What if I receive a damaged or defective product?

Report the issue within 48 hours of delivery by emailing hello@chickenpieces.ca or calling 403-690-1089. Provide your order number, detailed description, clear photos showing the damage, and photos of product packaging and shipping box. Wait for authorization before returning anything. For valid claims, we will offer a replacement, store credit, or refund to your original payment method.

What brands do you carry?

We stock major commercial brands including Sysco, Heinz, Gold Medal, Nestlé, Kraft, Big Train, Ghirardelli, Shirriff, Dr. Oetker, HYDRA+, Maldon, and many more. We continuously add new brands based on customer demand.

How many products do you have?

We currently stock over 20,000 SKUs across all categories, with new products added regularly based on market demand and customer requests.

What are thickened beverages?

Thickened beverages are specially formulated drinks designed for individuals with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties). They help prevent aspiration and make swallowing safer for people with stroke recovery, neurological conditions, or age-related swallowing challenges.

Can restaurants order from ChickenPieces.com?

Yes! We actively serve the restaurant industry. We provide bulk pricing to independent restaurants, cafes, food trucks, mobile kitchens, catering companies, bars, pubs, coffee shops, and bakeries. No business license required to order.

Do you offer volume discounts?

Yes! Volume pricing is available on most products. The more you buy, the better the per-unit price. Contact us at hello@chickenpieces.ca for pricing on large orders. We also offer pallet and skid quantities for high-volume buyers.

Do you carry Canadian-made products?

Yes! We have a dedicated Canadian Made category featuring products proudly made in Canada. We are committed to supporting Canadian manufacturers and suppliers.

Do you offer business accounts?

Yes! We offer bulk pricing for regular business customers. Contact us at hello@chickenpieces.ca to discuss volume pricing discounts, standing orders with automatic shipments, priority stock alerts for your regular items, and dedicated account support.

How do I contact customer service?

You can reach our customer service team by emailing hello@chickenpieces.ca or calling 403-690-1089. Our hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM MST. We are a Canadian-owned company based in Calgary, Alberta.

How do you use corn starch as a thickener?

To use Sysco Classic Corn Starch as a thickener, first create a slurry by mixing it with an equal amount of cold liquid, such as water, milk, or juice, until it's completely dissolved and lump-free. Once your main mixture, like a fruit pie filling or custard, is hot and simmering, slowly whisk in the corn starch slurry. Continue to cook and stir until the desired thickness is achieved and the mixture has come to a boil for about one minute to ensure the starch fully activates and loses any raw taste. Remember, corn starch thickens quickly once it reaches its gelling temperature.

Can you use cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour?

Yes, Sysco Classic Corn Starch is an excellent thickener to use instead of flour, especially for applications where you want a clearer, glossier finish and a more neutral flavor profile. It's also naturally gluten-free, which flour is not, making it suitable for specialized diets. Generally, you use about half the amount of corn starch compared to flour for the same thickening power. For instance, if a recipe calls for two tablespoons of flour, you'd typically use one tablespoon of Sysco Classic Corn Starch to achieve similar results in your fruit fillings or sauces.

Can you use corn starch as a thickener?

Absolutely, Sysco Classic Corn Starch is a highly effective and versatile thickener used widely in professional kitchens. It excels at creating smooth, stable, and clear preparations like fruit glazes for tarts, creamy custards, and various sauces without imparting any noticeable flavor. Its fine powdery texture ensures quick dispersion when properly slurred, preventing lumps and providing a consistent final product. This 5 kg bulk size ensures you always have a reliable supply for high-volume thickening needs in your patisserie or hotel kitchen.

How to make corn starch thickener?

To prepare Sysco Classic Corn Starch as a thickener, you need to first 'bloom' it. This involves mixing the desired amount of the fine white powder with an equal volume of cold liquid, such as water, milk, or a portion of the liquid from your recipe, to form a smooth slurry. The slurry prevents the starch granules from clumping when they hit a hot liquid, allowing them to disperse evenly and thicken effectively. Once this slurry is smooth, it's ready to be whisked into your simmering mixture for thickening, bringing it to a boil to activate the starch fully.

How long does corn starch take to thicken?

Sysco Classic Corn Starch thickens quite rapidly once it's added to a simmering liquid and the mixture reaches its gelling temperature, typically around 95-100°C (203-212°F). You'll notice the change in consistency almost immediately as you whisk in the slurry and the liquid comes back to a boil. For optimal activation and to ensure a stable, thick product without a starchy taste, it's generally recommended to boil the mixture gently for about one minute after the desired thickness is achieved. The final set for items like custards or pie fillings will occur as they cool.

How to use Sysco Classic Corn Starch / Thickener in a commercial kitchen?

In a commercial kitchen, Sysco Classic Corn Starch is indispensable for consistency and efficiency. Utilize this 5 kg bulk thickener for large-batch preparations like fruit fillings for pies and tarts, ensuring a stable set for buffet service. It's also excellent for thickening glazes for Danish pastries, or stabilizing crème pâtissière for eclairs and cream puffs, providing a clean, clear finish. For gluten-free menus, it serves as a reliable thickener for sauces and gravies, maintaining texture and appeal without compromising on dietary needs. Always prepare a slurry with cold liquid first for optimal results.

How to prepare Sysco Classic Corn Starch / Thickener for service?

To prepare Sysco Classic Corn Starch for service, always start by making a slurry. Measure the amount needed for your recipe, then combine it with an equal volume of cold liquid, such as water or milk, stirring until completely smooth and free of lumps. This slurry is then whisked into your hot or simmering product, like a fruit filling or soup base, and cooked until it reaches a full boil and your desired consistency is achieved. For dessert items, ensure it's cooled properly for the final set before portioning or plating for guests to enjoy a perfectly thickened product.

How to store Sysco Classic Corn Starch / Thickener for maximum shelf life?

To maximize the shelf life of your Sysco Classic Corn Starch, it's crucial to store the 5 kg container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and any sources of moisture. After opening, ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent exposure to air and humidity, which can lead to clumping or degradation of the powder. Proper storage in a sealed container will help maintain its fine, powdery consistency and thickening efficacy for up to 24 months. Avoid storing it near strong-smelling ingredients, as starches can absorb ambient odors over time.

What is the optimal working temperature range for Sysco Classic Corn Starch in pastry applications?

Sysco Classic Corn Starch typically begins to gelatinize and thicken effectively when heated to temperatures between 95-100°C (203-212°F). For best results in pastry applications like fruit fillings or custards, incorporate your corn starch slurry into a simmering liquid, then bring the mixture to a full boil for about one minute. This ensures complete activation of the starch granules, leading to maximum thickening power and stability. Allowing it to reach this temperature is crucial for a smooth, clear, and stable final product that will hold up well in a professional setting.

What is the typical substitution ratio when using Sysco Classic Corn Starch instead of flour in baking?

When substituting Sysco Classic Corn Starch for flour as a thickening agent in recipes, a general guideline is to use half the amount of corn starch compared to flour. For example, if a recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to thicken a sauce or fruit filling, you would typically use 1 tablespoon of Sysco Classic Corn Starch for similar results. This ratio provides comparable thickening power while often yielding a clearer and glossier finish. For delicate gluten-free pastry doughs, the substitution ratio may vary, so experimentation with small batches is always recommended to achieve your desired texture.

How long does Sysco Classic Corn Starch take to set, and what is its working time in professional kitchens?

Sysco Classic Corn Starch thickens almost instantaneously once it reaches its gelling temperature (around 95-100°C) and is brought to a boil. For most applications like fruit fillings or sauces, the 'setting' is immediate. However, for preparations such as custards or puddings, the final firm set occurs as the product cools, usually within 1-2 hours at room temperature, or faster in a refrigerated environment. The 'working time' once thickened is quite stable; corn starch-based fillings generally hold their consistency well through cooling and gentle handling, making it reliable for batch production and assembly on a busy pastry line.

Can Sysco Classic Corn Starch be used to create clear glazes for delicate pastries?

Yes, Sysco Classic Corn Starch is excellent for creating clear, shiny glazes for delicate pastries such as fruit tarts, Danish pastries, or petit fours. Unlike flour, corn starch provides a translucent finish that allows the vibrant colors of your fruit or other fillings to show through beautifully. When preparing a glaze, create a slurry with cold liquid first, then whisk it into a simmering sugar or fruit juice mixture. Cook until thick and clear, then cool slightly before brushing or pouring over your finished products. This 5 kg bulk size ensures you have plenty for all your glazing needs.

Is Sysco Classic Corn Starch suitable for stabilizing whipped cream or meringues in high-humidity environments?

Sysco Classic Corn Starch can be used in small quantities to help stabilize whipped cream, particularly for pastries that need to hold their shape longer in high-humidity settings, like those in coastal Canadian cities. A common method is to add a small amount, typically 1-2 teaspoons per cup of heavy cream, along with the sugar, before whipping. For meringues, a touch of corn starch can contribute to a crispier exterior and help prevent weeping. For larger scale needs, you might also consider dedicated stabilizers for extreme conditions, but corn starch offers a versatile solution.

What are the advantages of using Sysco Classic Corn Starch over other thickeners like tapioca starch for pastry cream?

Sysco Classic Corn Starch offers several advantages for pastry cream applications, particularly its neutral flavor profile and ability to produce a very smooth, creamy texture that sets firmly. It typically results in a slightly firmer set compared to tapioca starch, which tends to yield a more elastic and translucent consistency. For a classic, opaque crème pâtissière that holds its shape well when piped or spread, this 5 kg corn starch is a consistent choice. While tapioca starch is good for freeze-thaw stability, corn starch provides excellent texture for fresh-baked goods and immediate service in busy pastry departments.

Does Sysco Classic Corn Starch contribute to the tenderness of baked goods when used in flour mixes?

Yes, when incorporated into flour mixes, particularly in gluten-free baking, Sysco Classic Corn Starch can significantly contribute to the tenderness and lightness of the finished baked goods. Its fine texture helps to create a softer crumb structure compared to using only wheat flour, which might produce a tougher chew due to gluten development. For items like shortbread, delicate cookies, or even some sponge cakes, adding a portion of corn starch to the flour blend can result in a more tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture that professional bakers often aim for. Ensure accurate measurement for optimal results.

Are there larger bulk sizes of corn starch available through ChickenPieces.com if my bakery requires more than 5 kg?

Yes, ChickenPieces.com understands the varying volume needs of professional bakeries and patisseries. While the Sysco Classic Corn Starch is available in a convenient 5 kg size, we also offer larger formats such as the Gluten Free Corn Starch Bulk Size 25lbs/11.34 kgs (CP-NUTS-7487). This larger option is perfect for operations with extremely high demand, ensuring a consistent and ample supply for all your thickening and gluten-free baking applications without frequent reordering. You can find more details on our website to choose the best bulk size for your specific kitchen requirements.

What is beef tallow used for?

Beef tallow is used for deep frying, pan frying, searing, roasting, sauteing, baking, pastry making, confit, and cast iron seasoning. Its smoke point of 400F (204C) makes it suitable for all high-heat cooking methods. It excels at French fries, fried chicken, fish and chips, roasted vegetables, pie crusts, and steaks.

What is the smoke point of beef tallow?

Beef tallow has a smoke point of approximately 400F (204C), making it ideal for deep frying, high-heat searing, and oven roasting. Standard commercial frying operates at 350-375F, well below this threshold, meaning the tallow stays stable and clean-tasting throughout normal frying operations.

Is beef tallow healthy?

Beef tallow is a natural, minimally processed fat containing fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and zero carbohydrates. It is thermally stable and produces fewer harmful oxidation compounds during high-heat cooking compared to polyunsaturated vegetable oils. It is high in saturated fat, so individual dietary context matters.

How many times can you reuse beef tallow for frying?

With proper maintenance, beef tallow can be reused for 8-10 frying sessions before needing replacement. Strain after every use to remove food particles, maintain frying temperature between 350-375F, avoid introducing moisture, and store covered between sessions.

How long does beef tallow last?

Unopened beef tallow lasts up to 12 months at room temperature in a cool, dry location. Refrigerated after opening, it lasts 3-6 months. Frozen, it keeps for up to 12 months with no quality loss.

What is the difference between beef tallow and lard?

Beef tallow is rendered from beef fat while lard is rendered from pork fat. Tallow has a slightly higher smoke point at 400F (204C) versus lard at approximately 370F (188C) and a slightly firmer texture. Tallow has a more neutral flavour making it more versatile. Lard is prized in specific baking traditions like tamales and tortillas.

Description

Corn Starch Bulk Thickener 5KG / 11LBS Food Service Tub

Name: Sysco Classic Corn Starch 5 kg/11.02 LBS | Bulk Thickener
Brand: Sysco Classic
SKU: CP-SYS-5577513

⚡ Quick Answer

Sysco Classic Corn Starch 5 kg/11.02 lb is a bulk institutional thickener for long-term care homes, clinics, hospital food services, and healthcare facilities across Canada. Commonly used for soups, sauces, gravies, modified-texture dysphagia programs, IDDSI-compliant meal prep, and high-volume kitchen operations. ChickenPieces.com ships this corn starch Canada-wide from Calgary.

In Canadian healthcare food service, corn starch occupies a dual role: it's both a culinary staple and a clinical thickening tool. Kitchens using it for IDDSI programs should maintain separate labelled containers for culinary and dysphagia use to avoid cross-contamination and ensure accurate dosing. For higher-level IDDSI programs or facilities that need thickening without heat activation, purpose-formulated modified starch or xanthan gum thickeners provide more consistency. Browse our full range of thickening products to compare options for your kitchen's specific needs.

Quality & Specifications

Pure food-grade corn starch, 5KG / 11LBS bulk institutional tub. Multi-purpose cooking and thickening ingredient. Heat-activated (gelatinises above 60-70°C). Neutral taste, white powder form, widely used in food service thickening applications.

Professional Applications

Soup and broth thickening, gravy and sauce production, IDDSI modified-texture programs (heat-activated), dessert gel applications, batters and coatings, and institutional baking thickening applications.

Storage & Handling

Store sealed at ambient temperature in a dry area. Corn starch absorbs moisture and will clump if exposed to humidity or steam store away from cooking areas. Use a clean dry scoop. Shelf life per label; rotate FIFO.

Canadian Sourcing

Available for institutional ordering through ChickenPieces.com, shipping to all 10 Canadian provinces and 3 territories from our Calgary distribution hub in 2-5 business days.

Format	Type	Activation	Applications	Storage
5KG / 11LBS tub	Pure corn starch	Heat-activated (60-70°C+)	Cooking + IDDSI (hot)	Ambient dry

Frequently Asked Questions

Can corn starch be used for IDDSI thickening of cold beverages?+

Is bulk corn starch the same as retail corn starch?+

What's the best thickener for a kitchen that uses it for both cooking and IDDSI?+

Is this product gluten-free?+

How much corn starch does a hospital kitchen typically use per month?+

Does corn starch break down in acidic liquids like orange juice?+

Can I get a case of multiple 5KG tubs?+

🧠 Common Operator Scenarios

"What's the best institutional corn starch format for a Canadian hospital kitchen doing 300 meals per day with sauce and gravy service?"
"Can I use corn starch to thicken apple juice for IDDSI Level 2 without heating it first, or do I need a different product?"
"Our dietary team uses corn starch for both cooking and IDDSI should we have separate containers, and what are the risks of cross-use?"
"We order about 5KG of corn starch per week for our LTCF kitchen can I set up a standing order with monthly delivery?"
"Switching from small retail boxes to bulk 5KG tub what do I need to update in our HACCP kitchen documentation?"
"We're planning a large facility outdoor event with hot soup for 80 residents including 15 on IDDSI Level 3 how do I manage bulk corn starch thickening for the event?"

Available at ChickenPieces.com

Bulk Corn Starch Food Thickener | 5KG / 11LBS Institutional Tub

A kitchen staple for Canadian food service and healthcare facilities. Available for institutional ordering through ChickenPieces.com ships Canada-wide in 2-5 business days from our Calgary distribution centre.

Bulk Corn Starch Order for Your Kitchen

5KG institutional corn starch available through ChickenPieces.com for food service and healthcare kitchens across Canada. Order online or contact us for volume pricing.

21,000+ SKUs · Operating since 2017 · Calgary-based · Ships across Canada in 2-5 business days · hello@chickenpieces.ca

Warranty Information

Standard manufacturer warranty applies. Contact hello@chickenpieces.ca for warranty claims and returns.

YOUR SHOPPING BASKET

Sysco Classic Corn Starch 5 kg/11.02 LBS | Bulk Thickener

Bulk Discount Rates

Corn Starch Bulk Thickener 5KG / 11LBS Food Service Tub

Quality & Specifications

Professional Applications

Storage & Handling

Canadian Sourcing

Frequently Asked Questions

Available at ChickenPieces.com

Bulk Corn Starch Order for Your Kitchen

FREQUENTLY BOUGHT TOGETHER

Total Price

YOUR SHOPPING BASKET

Sysco Classic Corn Starch 5 kg/11.02 LBS | Bulk Thickener

Bulk Discount Rates

Corn Starch Bulk Thickener 5KG / 11LBS Food Service Tub

Quality & Specifications

Professional Applications

Storage & Handling

Canadian Sourcing

Frequently Asked Questions

Available at ChickenPieces.com

Bulk Corn Starch Order for Your Kitchen

FREQUENTLY BOUGHT TOGETHER

Total Price

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