Commercial Food Warming Equipment Basics

Understand the different types of food warming equipment as well as food safety

By J.R. Glass
Many restaurants make use of commercial food heat lamps or commercial food warmers in order to keep their food service running smoothly. Food warmers keep foods heated to safe temperatures, allowing you to prepare food in advance. Food heated in advance is warm and ready to serve, making your service quick and your customers happy.

There are several types of commercial food warmers available, including cabinets, warming plates, chaffing dishes and more. The type of food you serve will greatly determine which type of warming equipment you will need. It is important to understand food safety requirements when purchasing warmers with a specific food in mind. You will want to make sure the warmer will keep foods heated within a safe temperature range. As you consider your need for equipment, consider these commercial food warming equipment basics:

1. Determine the best type of commercial food warmers for your restaurant.

2. Understand safe food handling before purchasing commercial food warmers.

3. Use portable food warming equipment to keep food safe for catered events.

 

Determine the type of commercial food warming equipment that will best suit your needs

There are several types of commercial food warming equipment available, each providing for a different type of food warming need. You will want to have a full understanding of the types of equipment available to make a wise purchase for your restaurant. Consider the types of food you will keep warm and the type of container you will keep it in, while you are searching for commercial food heating equipment.
Try: For a guide on the types of commercial food heating equipment available, visit KATOM Restaurant Supply. Browse through its buyer's guide to get a better idea of what warming equipment will work for you. A company that sells a wide variety of food warming equipment is Restaurant Source. Browsing through its web pages will help you get a better idea of the types of warmers available.

Purchase restaurant food warming equipment that will keep food heated to safe temperatures

Food safety should be a top priority for every restaurant. Keep this in mind as you look for commercial food heat lamps and other warming equipment. With a specific food in mind, you will want to purchase equipment that will keep it heated at a safe temperature to protect your customers, and employees, from food-born illness.
Try: Review the USDA safe food handling fact sheet before purchasing food warming equipment. Understanding safe food handling will help you to make a wise purchase of commercial food heaters. SDSU has several documents on safe food handling.

Transport cooked foods safely with portable food warming equipment

Restaurants that offer catering services will need portable food warming equipment to keep food at safe temperatures during transport and serving. There are several types of portable food warming carts, lamps and plates that will make keeping food safe a snap. Along with the right equipment, it's also critical to have knowledge on food safety.
Try: Everyday Health has a caterer quiz that provides helpful information on food handling safety, including portable food equipment safety. ArticleTrader.com provides a guide listing critical pieces of equipment you will need for your business, including portable food warming equipment.

 

  • Save money on restaurant food warming equipment by purchasing used or refurbished equipment. Many times used equipment comes with a warranty, giving you a guarantee on the quality of the product.

Find Pre-Screened Vendors

Compare quotes and save:






Trusted Vendors

DIRECTV® for Restaurants

Give your customers access to America's #1 in Television Experience -- DIRECTV®. Choose from a huge variety of the best TV entertainment packages for as little as $19.99/mo for 12 Mo.

Visit directv.com