At Plenty of Thyme, dietary preferences are incredibly important to us, and we prioritise every single restriction to ensure that taste is not compromised. Especially when catering for corporate events, where a variety of restrictions and allergens may be at play.
We understand that each dietary restriction needs a different approach to ensure there is no cross-contamination, wrongfully sourced food, and to adhere to Natasha’s Law. And here’s how we do that.
Plant-based/ Vegan/ Vegetarian
Plant-based vegan and vegetarian each have similar principles, which we are happy to follow. Each of our sample menus can be adapted to be vegan, avoiding meat, dairy, and eggs. Each of our chefs is highly trained on allergens and preferences and will ensure different tools (e.g, tongs, boards, and knives) are used to build and present the vegan/ vegetarian or plant-based menus. This lowers the cross-contamination risk to ensure a safe and enjoyable meal.
When catering for corporate events, taste is never compromised in our vegan or vegetarian menus, and a tasting session of these menus is offered to prove this promise.
Gluten-free
Gluten-free diets, especially for those who suffer from coeliac disease, can be a daunting and very serious diet to prepare meals for. However, as highly trained chefs and an award-winning catering company, we are experienced in creating menus for a variety of special diets, including celiac. As a team, the most important variable in supporting those with celiac disease when catering for corporate events is avoiding cross-contamination. We do this by using a separate workspace, if possible, or cleaning down the entire surface and using clean, separate tools. It is also imperative to use food products clearly labelled as gluten-free.
Halal
Halal food is a part of the Islamic belief in which muslims can only eat certain food products that are processed and specially sourced in a certain way. This dietary requirement means that they are not allowed to eat any food products that contain haram ingredients (including alcohol and pork).
A way that our team can adhere to this restriction when catering for corporate events is by purchasing specially sourced meat and ingredients that are labelled halal. Not only this, but also clean down the stations before and after preparing the halal meals to minimise cross-contamination. At Plenty of Thyme, we understand that religious restrictions hold the same importance and seriousness as allergens, and we take extra caution when preparing and creating their menus.
Kosher
Kosher is another religious diet that Jewish people follow. The main principles of Kosher food include only eating certain animals and keeping meat and dairy separate. When catering for corporate events and having kosher restrictions, it is imperative that we use completely separate tools and specially source all the ingredients used in the kosher version of the menu.
Allergens
As an award-winning Essex catering company, we are highly aware of the seriousness of allergies and how, if handled incorrectly, they can be fatal. In any event, including catering for corporate events, once we are told about an allergen, we focus on how we can safely create a meal that accommodates the allergen. Our team is also fully trained on the 14 most common allergens and has a deep understanding of how to safely deliver food to those with allergies.
The importance of safely catering for corporate events
The neglect of food safety can be a deadly mistake, and no matter the event, we are always on high alert for allergens, preferences, and food restrictions. Ensuring that Natasha’s law is followed, cross-contamination is minimised, and food taste is as delicious as always.
Check our page on corporate catering for more information. And for any questions or to book an amazing corporate event with us, don’t hesitate to contact us today.