Individually Packaged Catering
When most people think of catering for meetings or events, they imagine easily portioned dishes, like pizza, or large aluminum trays full of mass quantities of food designed to serve a crowd. However, that's not the only way food can be prepared for groups. Individually packaged catering can be the perfect fit in many situations, providing a great alternative to a buffet table or family-style service.
What are the benefits of ordering catering that’s individually packaged?
Individually packaged catering can be a great option for many reasons. First, it's hygienic. For those who simply want a more sanitary serving experience, food in an individual package can set any health concerns aside.
In addition, this option can allow for personalization, ensuring there's something to everyone's taste with no risk of running out. Meals can vary based on portions and food choices, which can be especially helpful in groups with special dietary requirements where you need to prevent cross contamination or adhere to strict food service rules, like keeping kosher. A huge range of food can be individually packaged, from pasta and garlic bread to standard sandwich favorites.
What types of foods can I order individually packaged?
One of the main upsides of individually packaged catering is the wide variety of options available. All kinds of foods can be prepared and served when wrapped individually, from comprehensive dishes with protein, sides, and veggies to something as simple as salads.
This can extend to all meals throughout the day, too. Packaged catered meals can include pancakes or French toast for breakfast, sandwiches and salads for lunch, and heartier meals like pasta, fish, or chicken for dinner.
Are individually packaged meals still fresh?
Freshness may be a concern with individually packaged meals versus larger catered portions for some diners, but it shouldn't be. Meals packaged individually can still be fresh and delicious, guaranteeing a great experience for dishes of all kinds. In general, meals are cooked to order and then sealed in packaging, rather than being made in advance and stored. In addition, packaging is designed to be airtight and sanitary to prevent spoiling, drying out, or losing flavor.
Is there anything I should know about individually packaged catering?
There are some differences between individually packaged catering and larger catered services that you should keep in mind. While something like buffet-style catered meals don't require much in the way of waste, individually packaged meals can result in a lot of leftover trash, so providing trash cans and recycling bins for easy cleanup is essential. In addition, an organizational system could be beneficial. With different dishes for different people, keeping a meeting or event moving quickly means a way to make sure everyone gets the right meal in a timely manner, no matter how many varieties you ordered.
How does packaging affect our perception of foods?
Packaging can make a big difference in the appeal of foods. Food that's well packaged can inspire confidence in buyers and diners, while mediocre packaging can turn a consumer off before they even take a bite. This can be particularly notable in children; one study found that 88% of kids are subject to a taste placebo effect based on what the packaging looks like. Further, cultural differences in packaging style have been noted, with consumers viewing products differently based on the style of packaging in use.
