SBS preps Food for launch

Aussie broadcaster SBS is prepping a free-to-air food channel and has linked up with Scripps Networks Interactive to offer programming about cooking, culture and culinary adventures.

Food Network will be rolled out on November 17 and will be available across the country, offering programming featuring Aussie chef Curtis Stone such as Beach Eats USA, competition series Kitchen Inferno and Surfing the Menu.

The 24/7 net, headed by Food Network channel manager Chris Keely, will also offer shows such as Chopped, after SBS struck an output deal and licensing agreement with SNI for programming from across the food category.

Other series include Rachael Ray’s 30 Minute Meals and Giada at Home, as well as culinary travel shows Reza: Spice Prince of Vietnam, Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern and Diners, Drive Ins & Dives.

Michael Ebeid, SBS MD, said: “Food Network will offer a taste of something more, with a focus on simple, authentic and accessible everyday food inspiration from around the world, available all day, every day, across platforms and for free.”