Meetings Blog May 12, 2017
These decisions are by no means easy, taking expertise and a certain knack to get just right, however to fully succeed with your catering responsibilities care should be taken to consider the type of food and drink restrictions and preferences that your attendees may require. It’s not acceptable these days to tick the box that says vegetarians have been given eating options; instead many more aspects need to be thought through.
So, vegetarians and vegans. Tick. We all make sure that there are non-meat dishes available. Next let’s have a look at what different communities potentially represented at our event may require. Muslim guests will enjoy your vegetarian choices as they stay clear, for example, of any pork option on show. If you want to give them more, though, investigate zabiha, halal or kosher dishes with your caterer and then make sure that whatever you go with is communicated well when presented. Also aim to keep any alcohol to set areas, not on every table.
There is a growing group of people looking at more ethical and environmental aspects to food production, packaging and preparation. Recycled wrapping, reusable containers, waste reduction processes, organic food. These things matter to many and can easily form part of an event manager’s planning. Then there’s healthy eating. Freshness, vitamin-rich, low-salt. Wholesome snacks and meals are not only attractive to those people looking to stay trim; they are also the preference of those who want to portray a certain image when out in public.
Religious and lifestyle restrictions aside, potential allergic reactions to what you provide must be considered. For those people that have allergies the labeling of food, where not entirely clear, can avoid shouting to see if a doctor is attending. One way to minimize the risk is to cut out the most common allergens: tree nuts and gluten products being prime examples. There are always simple alternatives and we at NH Hotel Group pride ourselves at being able to provide a wide, inclusive selection so that everyone can pick and choose.
A useful tip for all meeting planners is to find out as much as you can about your attendees before the event and focus your attention on the majority, with an awareness of the minorities. Offer an extensive selection for conference buffets and know who needs what for sit-down meals. The truth is that most event goers who have a restrictive diet are well versed in navigating the tables to find appropriate fare to keep them sustained. Although you’ll never be able to satisfy every need or preference, if you can offer up some personalized dishes, showing an element of extra care and consideration, you’re likely to get a few more nods of approval to add to client loyalty building.
