Got a lot of mouths to feed?

4 Reasons to Choose Fuel-Chafing Dishes Over Induction for Event Catering

Chafing dishes are used to keep food hotter for longer, so they're among the most vital supplies for those who provide event catering. There are many sizes and styles available, but probably the most fundamental factor is how they provide heat, and many caterers will find themselves choosing between either a fuel-chafing dish or an induction-chafing dish. 

While fuel-chafing dishes use disposable canisters filled with gel or liquid fuel, induction surfaces utilize electromagnetic properties to heat dishes. Induction-chafing dishes do have some benefits, but fuel-chafing dishes are generally better for event catering.

Here are just four reasons why.

1. Less Expensive

It always makes sense to keep costs in mind when you're choosing catering supplies. Since event catering often requires several chafing dishes to be used at once, any differences in price are going to add up quickly. Fuel-chafing dishes are much simpler than induction-chafing dishes, so you'll find that they are also considerably less expensive.

2. No Cables or Batteries

One of the main drawbacks of induction-chafing dishes is that they require electricity. This means they will either feature a battery or need to be plugged into an outlet. Since batteries can die and outlets aren't always available or convenient to reach, this can become a problem when you're catering a large event, especially when that event is outside. Fuel-chafing dishes don't present the same problems. When one canister runs out of fuel, you can simply grab another.

3. Works with All Materials

Because of the way induction-chafing dishes work, they can only be used with materials that contain iron. That means you may find yourself having to heat something that cannot be heated by induction. This is more likely to be a concern when you cater large events since you'll need to deal with so many different dishes. Fuel-chafing dishes can work with any kitchen metal, so you will always be able to rely on them.

4. Easier to Transport

Event caterers need to be able to assemble all they need in a flash, then pack it up and move it away at the end of the day. As such, it makes sense to consider portability when you're picking out supplies. Induction-chafing dishes are much larger and heavier than fuel-chafing dishes, so portability can be a problem. Remember, you'll often need to be carrying chafing dishes back and forth throughout the day so that additional weight can really start to become a problem.

Reach out to an event catering supply shop to learn more.


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