15 million Americans are plaqued by food allergies, and 1 in 140 Americans has Celiac disease. Although individuals can become allergic to anything, and any age, 8 foods make up 90% of the worlds allergy problems, and 6 of these (milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and wheat/gluten) are commonly found in frozen desserts.

Down with the Swirl provides those with food allergies and intestinal sensitivities with a frozen yogurt experience that is safe & allergy conscious!

Founded on Faith. Down with the Swirl brings to you a new take on "froyo." Gone are the days of uninspired flavors, and trite toppings. Prepare your palates and stay tuned. This revolution will be televised!

Wouldn't it be great if frozen yogurt was worry free!? Well, now it is. Welcome to...

The first self serve frozen yogurt joint in New Jersey (and maybe the world!!) whose focus is on providing an exciting, and unique frozen yogurt experience that is safe and convenient for everyone: including those with food allergies, gastrointestinal sensitivities, or other g.i. issues.

WHO ARE WE?

We are a Mom & Pop (well daughter) operation who has set out to revolutionize the self serve frozen yogurt experience...
by offering a froyo safe haven to those with food allergies, and/or gastrointestinal sensitivities.

HOW WILL WE ACCOMPLISH THIS?

By introducing to the masses what we call the "Kyla Korner™."A section of our store that has been been designated as an allergen free zone. In this set apart area of our little abode, we have designated:

• 2 brand new yogurt machines that will never hold products containing dairy, nut, egg, soy, and/or other commonly known allergens.
• Our two Kyla Korner™ machines will contain a total of 4 single flavors and 2 swirled flavors. We have partnered with a yogurt maker who supplies all natural, allergy free yogurt blends.

In addition to monitoring what comes out of the machines, we have also focused our attentions to limiting cross contamination:

• by storing ALL toppings in self contained, spill proof containers. The Kyla Korner™ wall displays 5-10 wall mounted topping dispensers containing allergen free toppings;
• the center island will separate the cold toppings from the dry with the use of cold pans with individual lids and old fashion candy jars with lids to limit cross contamination as well as microbial accumulation.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT TO US?

Because we believe, "the best catalyst to innovation, is desperation!"

• We saw a need that was not being met.
• We were desperate to find a solution.
• There were none.
• So, we became the solution!

Having a relative with food allergies or gastrointestinal sensitivities your senses become heightened to certain needs. Frozen Yogurt establishments have become an exciting, and dynamic dessert option that is also healthier than your traditional ice cream and water ice. But, those with food sensitivities aren't always able to fully immerse themselves in the self serve froyo experience.

My younger sister Kyla has peanut, soy, & dust allergies amongst other things, and one day she asked to go to a froyo joint near our home town. Although I knew the risks, and was full of anxiety, I didn't want to deprive her of the experience. Besides...Look at that face. Who could say no to that face! Clearly...not me or my mom for that matter!

She's older now, but just as cute!

Upon careful inspection, we showed her which machines were "safe" for her to get yogurt from and which were not. Then, to the topping counter we went...dun dun Duuuh! At this particular establishment (and most of the ones my mom & I have visited) all of the toppings are contained in drop-in containers; similar to this

Although aesthetically pleasing and easily accessible, this method of housing toppings is a cross contamination and microbe nightmare! Long story short, Kyla went down the line, put oreos, M&Ms, and gummy bears in her cup and went happily on her way. Then, in the car as we were all enjoying our masterpieces we heard that tell-tale dry cough Kyla gets when she is on the verge of an allergic reaction.

Even though we had taken all precautions the cross contamination factor was still there. Maybe she had a reaction because the machine with her chocolate yogurt once contained peanut butter. Or maybe her reaction was a result of peanut particles falling into various other topping containers. Regardless of the reason, and despite our carefulness, Kyla still had a reaction.

Although instances like these are terrifying, for this particular instance we are thankful. It opened our eyes, and catalyzed us to revolutionize the frozen yogurt experience.

DON'T FRET!!

Down with the Swirl, isn't just for those with food allergies. Those with gluten sensitivities, lactose intolerance, Celiac disease or no ailments at all will feel comfortable in our place!

Our vision is simple: “A swirl of Endless Possibility.” Philanthropy, loyalty, love, and integrity are the things in which we value the most. These values will be reflected in the ways in which we conduct our business, as well as in the ways in which we build relationships.

We are already surrounded by such talented, caring and helpful people that we know will be there with us every step of the way. From our consultant with his proven track record, to our team of architects, and contractors, etc. we are already overwhelmed by the kindness, generosity, and support we have been shown thus far.

THE RISKS INVOLVED

For us, the greatest risk is in not offering consumers with a solution to accommodate their dietary needs.This is a true work in progress. Although we have already begun the build out for the store, the Kyla Korner™ is the missing piece to that puzzle.

We are shooting for a July 2013 open date but given the amount of time it takes for the machines our open may be delayed slightly. We'll be sure to let you know if there are any unexpected delays. In the unlikely event that there is a major set-back, you will be the first to know.

Thanks so much for visiting our Fundable page and supporting this revolution! Join our movement and get in on the ground floor of something big!  Besides, you will be getting some sweet rewards in the process!

Peace, Love, and Swirl™                                                                                                 Mama Swirl™ & Swirl Girl™

Make sure to follow us on Facebook for additional information and photos! facebook.com/DownWithTheSwirl
 

Down with the Swirl has partnered with the leading project manager/consultant in the Tri-State area. Our consultant is a family run business that has been around for more than 30 years, and has opened hundreds of locations; 75% of their clients have opened multiple stores over the last few years. None of which have closed.