Food Network UK debuts on Freeview

Food Network UK is now available on Freeview, the UK's biggest digital TV platform.

Scripps Networks Interactive (SNI), the owner of the channel, announced the station will broadcast on the free-to-air service during the primetime slot of 18:00 to 22:00 every night from yesterday (July 7th 2011).

The culinary-focused station, which is home to shows such as Barefoot Contessa, Ace of Cakes and Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, can be found at Freeview channel 49, as well as being available to Sky and Freesat viewers.

Nick Thorogood, managing director of Food Network Europe, Middle East and Africa, said the launch represents an "important step" in the company's UK expansion plan.

"We have quickly established Food Network as a unique and diverse lifestyle entertainment channel ... and we are really excited about bringing it to an even larger audience in the UK," he added.

As well as the Food Network, SNI's channel portfolio includes the Cooking Channel, Travel Channel, DIY Network and US music station Great American Country.

According to Ofcom figures, 93.1 per cent of homes in the UK receive digital TV services such as Freeview, Sky and Virgin Media.