Longest French Fries Cooking Marathon, world record attempt by Nick Van Den Langenbergh

March 13, 2024

Rijkevorsel, Belgium--Nick Van Den Langenbergh, the owner and manager of Nika BV / Frituur De Wissel Rijkevorsel in Rijkevorsel, Belgium, will try to break the world record in the Longest French Fries Cooking Marathon category between August 6-11, 2024; Luc Driesen, who runs the chippie ‘ Friteria Estrella ’ in the town of Malle, Belgium, set the previous world record in this category, a total of five days, six hours and 15 minutes, according to the WORLD RECORD ACADEMY.

World Record Academy: Can you make a brief presentation of your business?

Nick Van Den Langenbergh: Frituur De Wissel has been in business for 45 years this year. This fry shop has always been a family-owned business and is well-known in this area. My wife (Kay De Ruijter) and I took over this establishment on August 6, 2021, three years ago. We are very honored to be able to continue this tradition. Ps As a young boy, I also used to come here to enjoy fries.

World Record Academy: Tell us something about yourself: how did you choose this type of business, what other businesses have you had, what do you propose for the future.

Nick Van Den Langenbergh: Previously, I mainly worked in transportation and logistics. However, since I always wanted to have my own business and since fries are typically Belgian, my wife and I decided to take over this establishment, Frituur De Wissel. I would like for my two daughters to take over this business later on. Additionally, we aim to expand and make this establishment even bigger and more renowned.

World Record Academy: how did you decide on this record, (how did the idea come to you), who guided you in the beginning, who will support you (family, friends, local sponsors, officials)?

Nick Van Den Langenbergh: We came up with this idea because on 6/8/24 we've had the fry shop for 3 years, the fry shop has been around for 45 years, and we wanted to do something special for our customers as a stunt. Of course, we have all the support from our family, friends, customers, sponsors...

World Record Academy: what do you intend to achieve with this record? (business development, fulfillment of a personal goal, fame for the city and business, etc.)

Nick Van Den Langenbergh: My main goal is to break this record as a personal achievement, but also to make our village of Rijkevorsel more renowned. Additionally, this year I am turning 50, so this is also an extra challenge for me.

World Record Academy: what is the secret of well-browned/fried potatoes? Do you have any advice for fans?

Nick Van Den Langenbergh: The secret to perfectly golden-brown fries is to fry them twice. The first fry cooks them through, while the second fry makes them crispy and lightly browned. And most importantly, using fresh, high-quality potatoes is key.

World Record Academy: how do you prepare for this record?

Nick Van Den Langenbergh: I'm preparing by going jogging three times a week, swimming twice a week, and also working with a personal trainer for fitness. Additionally, I am mindful of my diet.

World Record Academy: did you receive the support of the local authorities / community?

Nick Van Den Langenbergh: The local community is super enthusiastic, and we also have a good collaboration with the local government.

World Record Academy: why is this kind of record so important to Belgians?

Nick Van Den Langenbergh: This world record is significant for Belgians because fries are typically Belgian. Most Belgians visit the fry shop weekly, and it's also a tradition

World Record Academy: what kind of potatoes do you prefer? (fried, baked, boiled, etc.)

Nick Van Den Langenbergh: My preference naturally leans towards fried potatoes. However, since fried food isn't very healthy, I also enjoy boiled potatoes.