What are the best practices for using chafing dishes and hot boxes?

When choosing chafing dishes and hot boxes for your event, start by picking the right type and size. Chafing dishes can be electric, fuel-based, or induction, and come in different shapes and sizes. Hot boxes are insulated and can be heated with electricity or fuel, holding several trays or pans. Consider how much food you need to keep warm, the availability and cost of electricity or fuel at the venue, the serving area's space and layout, and how long and often you'll need to serve food.

I have seen some amazing chafing dishes which helped elevate the events I have attended. Think outside of the box. While traditional chafers are functional, doing something different or unique can become part of your branding and marketing. Historical venues don't allow open flame, so having a non flame based option can help set you apart.

Another thing to consider is the time that you'll be travelling with food. Some thermal transports have optional add-ons that help with holding temperatures, which are particularly useful when you have a long haul. We live in a rural area and routinely have to transport dishes up to 90 minutes. To maintain food safe temperatures, these features are critical.

Before using chafing dishes and hot boxes, set them up and preheat them properly. First, place them on a stable, level surface, away from flammable materials. Then, connect or light your electric or fuel sources and adjust the temperature as instructed by the manufacturer. Fill the chafing dishes' water pan about two-thirds full with hot water and cover them. Preheat the chafing dishes and hot boxes for at least 15 minutes or until they reach the desired temperature.

Remember that pre-heating your beverage containers is also important for large coffee/tea/hot chocolate service (and the like). A quick way to pre-heat the thermal containers for this purpose is in a sanitizing dish machine. Not only is it best practice to clean these prior to use after pulling from storage, but a high-temp machine will also bring these up to 190F.

First, assess the size and setup of your event, whether it will be a single-side or double-side buffet, as this will impact how frequently you need to refill dishes. Collaborate with the chef or kitchen staff to ensure all food is placed in the appropriate pans (shotgun, full, half, 1/3, etc.). Once this is determined, gather the necessary chafing dishes and sternos (2 sternos for full dishes, 1 for half or soup dishes) for the setup. Fill the chafing dishes with hot water and light the sternos at least 10 minutes before adding the food to maintain the safe internal temperature. Keep the lids on the food until serving begins.

Once your equipment is ready, fill them with hot food cooked to a safe internal temperature and cover securely. Use shallow pans or trays that fit well in your chafing dishes or hot boxes, avoiding overfilling or stacking. Cover the food with a lid, foil, or plastic wrap, sealing any gaps. Label the food with its name, ingredients, and allergens, and use serving utensils that match the portion size.

Monitoring and controlling food temperature is crucial when using chafing dishes and hot boxes. Use a calibrated thermometer to check the temperature every two hours, and discard any food that drops below 140°F (60°C) for more than four hours. Stir the food occasionally for even heating and add more hot water or fuel if necessary. Replace low food with fresh batches promptly and avoid mixing old and new food.

After service, clean and store your equipment safely. Turn off or unplug electric or fuel sources and let them cool completely. Discard any leftover food, water, or fuel. Wash pans, trays, lids, and utensils with hot water and soap. Wipe down chafing dishes and hot boxes with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then dry thoroughly. Store the equipment in a clean, dry place away from dust, moisture, and pests.

We work with local food banks and soup kitchens and, whenever possible, we use them as partners for left over foods. Taking care to keep good control over food temperatures allows you to also help take care of your community! ??