Five things to look out for when eating at a hotel buffet

Hotel buffets can be a delightful experience, offering a vast array of foods to suit different tastes and preferences. Just like any self-service dining setup though, they come with their own set of potential risks. Here are five things to watch out for at a hotel buffet…

1. Food hygiene and freshness

One of the main concerns at a hotel buffet is the length of time food has been sitting out. Buffets often leave food exposed for extended periods, which can lead to bacterial growth, particularly in perishable items like seafood, meat, and dairy.

Opt for dishes that look fresh and properly covered. Avoid items that seem to have been left out for too long – look for signs like wilting vegetables or meats that have cooled to room temperature. Hot foods should be steaming, and cold items should be kept on ice.

2. Allergen cross-contamination

Cross-contamination is a frequent issue at buffets, as serving utensils may be shared between dishes, or certain allergens like nuts as well as shellfish may inadvertently mix with other foods.

If you have food allergies, ask the staff about the ingredients or avoid dishes that are placed near potential allergens. Many buffets also have dedicated stations or labeling for allergen-free options, so stick to those if you’re unsure.

3. Cleanliness of serving utensils and stations

Shared utensils at buffets can become unsanitary if they aren’t cleaned or replaced regularly. Food stations may also not be cleaned as often as needed, leading to potential contamination.

Always use a clean plate when going for a second round and avoid handling utensils directly. If a station looks messy or if a utensil seems dirty, alert the staff. You should also observe how often the hotel buffet staff replenishes and cleans the serving areas to gauge overall hygiene.

4. Under-cooked or improperly stored foods

Buffets often feature items like meats, fish, or eggs, which can pose risks if they aren’t cooked or stored properly. Dishes like sushi, rare meats, or cold salads require strict temperature controls to remain safe to eat.

Stick to well-cooked items and avoid raw or rare dishes if you’re uncertain about how they’ve been handled. As previously mentioned, check that cold items are being kept on ice, and ensure hot items are properly heated. If something looks undercooked at the hotel buffet, it’s best to skip it.

5. Improper food labeling

At many buffets, the labeling of food can be inaccurate or vague, especially with dishes that look similar. This can cause confusion about ingredients, allergens, or whether a dish is suitable for specific dietary needs like gluten-free or vegetarian diets.

If food labels are unclear or missing, don’t hesitate to ask the hotel buffet staff for details about the ingredients or preparation methods. It’s better to confirm than risk consuming something that might not align with your dietary restrictions or preferences.