5 Reasons Why You Should Skip Office Potlucks (and 3 Alternatives)

Office potlucks are a popular tradition where employees bring homemade dishes to share with their colleagues. While this might seem like a fun and inclusive activity, there is a growing trend of people seeking alternatives to potlucks. 

We’re put together 5 reasons you should skip the office potluck in London, and try something else (like a proper catering service) instead.

1. Food Safety Concerns

One of the most significant issues with office potlucks is food safety. When multiple people prepare and transport dishes from home, there is a higher risk of foodborne illnesses due to improper handling and storage. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) suggests there are 2.4 million cases of foodborne illness every year, up from one million in 2009. This risk can be minimized by opting for professional catering, where food is prepared and handled according to strict safety standards.

2. Dietary Restrictions and Preferences

Accommodating various dietary needs can be challenging in a potluck setting. Employees may have allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary preferences that are difficult to cater to with homemade dishes. This can unintentionally exclude some employees from participating fully in the event. For instance, someone with a gluten allergy may find limited options or risk cross-contamination. Choosing a professional catering service can ensure that all dietary needs are met, making the event more inclusive for everyone.

3. Time and Effort Required

Preparing a dish for a potluck requires a significant amount of time and effort. Busy professionals may find it inconvenient to cook a meal after a long workday or before heading to the office. This can lead to stress and dissatisfaction. In contrast, professional catering services handle all the preparation, allowing employees to focus on their work and enjoy the event without the added burden.

4. Uneven Contributions

Office potlucks often suffer from uneven contributions, where some employees bring elaborate dishes while others bring minimal or no contributions. This imbalance can create frustration and resentment among employees. An anecdote from an office worker highlights this issue: “Our potluck was a disaster because only a few people brought food, and the rest of us had to scramble to make up for the lack of dishes.”

Opting for professional catering ensures that there is enough high-quality food for everyone, eliminating this problem.

5. Potential for Workplace Tension

Potlucks can sometimes create or exacerbate workplace tensions. This one follows up from the previous issue, but issues like competitive cooking, food envy, or cultural insensitivity can arise, leading to uncomfortable situations. For example, an employee might feel slighted if their dish is not well-received, or cultural differences in food preferences can cause misunderstandings.

A quote from a workplace dynamics expert sums it up: “Food can be a sensitive topic, and potlucks can sometimes highlight differences rather than bring people together.” Professional catering can help avoid these problems by providing a neutral, high-quality food experience for all.

Office Potluck Alternatives

Okay so the traditional office potluck can be bad, so what’s the alternatives. Let’s look at three things you can do instead. 

1. Choose a Professional Caterer

Professional catering is a convenient and efficient alternative to office potlucks. It offers a variety of benefits, including a wide selection of high-quality dishes, accommodation of dietary restrictions, and professional handling to ensure food safety.

For example, here at Masters Catering we provide a comprehensive catering service that can meet the diverse needs of any office event. We ensure food safety by adhering to strict preparation and handling guidelines. Additionally, they offer a variety of menus that can be customized to accommodate various dietary needs, saving employees time and effort. From hot lunches to traditional sushi menus, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone.

2. Team-Building Cooking Classes

Organizing cooking classes as a team-building activity is another excellent alternative. These classes not only provide a fun and engaging experience but also promote skill development and teamwork. For instance, a company organized a cooking class where employees learned to make pasta from scratch. The event was a huge success, fostering collaboration and camaraderie among team members.

3. Food Truck Events

This can be tricky in London, but for those in the rest of England hiring food trucks for office events offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Food trucks can provide a variety of cuisines, on-site preparation, and a lively atmosphere. This option caters to different dietary needs and preferences, making it an inclusive choice. 

Office Potluck vs the Alternatives

In summary, office potlucks come with several drawbacks, including food safety concerns, dietary restrictions, the time and effort required, uneven contributions, and the potential for workplace tension. Fortunately, there are better alternatives available. We might be a little biased, but we think professional catering will be your best bet, you can choose from a wide range of professional, inclusive and enjoyable items. So choose Masters Catering for your next office event, experience the convenience and quality of professional catering and make your office event a success.