If you’re planning a party that includes buffet-style dining, you’ll need to keep certain dishes cold and fresh. To prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, some foods must remain below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Learn more about how to use bagged ice and other methods to keep buffet items chilled, healthy, and delicious.

How to Chill Buffet Foods

1. Put on Ice

Some foods, such as oysters, mussels, and crab, can be served directly over packaged ice. However, direct contact with ice may diminish the colors, flavors, and freshness of other foods. Prevent spoiling by putting bagged ice in pans or bowls, then set your food on metal platters over the ice.

2. Use Coolers

Set coolers on either end of the buffet table to keep water, sodas, beers, and wines cold. Coolers are also helpful for chilling and storing extra platters of vegetables, dips, pasta salads, and deviled eggs until you’re ready to put them out for your guests. 

3. Don’t Put Everything out at Once

Prevent your cold buffet foods from reaching room temperature and possibly going bad by setting them out in small amounts. Keep the rest in your refrigerator until you need to replenish a platter. Also, put buffet foods in smaller bowls and containers, which can maintain their temperature more easily. 

4. Refill Trays Strategically

When adding more items to your buffet, move any remaining food to the fronts of the platters and containers. Your guests will be more likely to grab these first, so the temperatures of foods on the same tray won’t become drastically different. 

When you need bagged ice for parties and events, order it from Hawaiian Ice Company. For over 20 years, they have produced and distributed high-quality packaged ice to clients throughout Honolulu. Call (808) 538-6918 to set up an appointment for ice delivery, and visit them online to learn more about their products.