Food Warmers
A commercial countertop food warmer provides a way for restaurateurs and caterers to keep their food warm between cooking and serving. Food warmers come in a variety of styles, shapes, and purposes, so every operator can find a model that suits his or her application.
Commercial Countertop Food Warmers: What You Need to Know
Countertop food warmers keep food hot until it can be served. This both makes the food more appetizing to the eventual customer and prevents harmful pathogens from taking root in the food, keeping it safe until it's eaten. Each food warmer tray style has its own benefits and detriments, which will be discussed below. Whether your establishment needs a high-quantity heated display case or a buffet-style food pan warmer, we've got you covered.
Common Questions About Countertop Food Warmers
What's the difference between dry and wet countertop food warmers?
Dry and wet food warmers differ in the method by which they transfer heat from the element to the food. Wet food warmers heat a well of water, which then converts to steam and heats the food pan. Because steam transfers heat very efficiently, wet food warmers are a popular choice for buffet-style establishments, but they require extra maintenance because their water reservoirs must be refilled periodically to keep the tabletop food warmer functioning.
Dry countertop food warmers bypass the water step and radiate heat from the element directly into the food. This method is helpful since there isn't a water reservoir that needs to be refilled, but because the heat radiates from a single spot instead of enveloping the food pan, dry warmers can leave hot and cold spots in the warming food. The density of the food determines how well heat is transferred throughout the entire pan, so consider what foods you'll be heating before choosing between dry and wet warming pans.
We also carry combination food pan warmers that offer both dry and wet sections. If you have several types of food you want to offer, combination food warmer trays give you the option to use the type of heating that performs best.
How long can I hold food in my commercial buffet warmer?
As long as you protect food from outside contaminants and maintain a safe temperature range, which is 140 degrees Fahrenheit or above, you can leave food in these food warmer trays for long periods of time, though the FDA recommends food be stored unrefrigerated for no more than 2 hours. However, your food won't be appetizing after extended holding periods, even if it is technically safe to eat. For wet food warmers, you'll also have to refill the water periodically to keep the machine functioning.