Catering Event Food Safety Checklist [FREE PDF]

Catering managers and event coordinators use this checklist for off-site catering food safety per FDA Food Code time/temperature control requirements and ServSafe event catering best practices.

  • Industry: Food Service
  • Frequency: Per Event
  • Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Role: Catering Manager
  • Total Items: 8
  • Compliance: FDA Food Code 2022, ServSafe Catering Guidelines

Transport & Setup

Verify food transport temperatures and event setup safety.

  • Were foods transported at safe temperatures (hot above 135°F, cold below 41°F)?
  • Are chafing dishes, cold holding units, and warming equipment operational?
  • Is a portable handwash station or nearby restroom with handwashing available?
  • Transport and setup notes

Service & Cleanup

Monitor food safety during service and proper cleanup.

  • Are time controls applied (discard TCS foods after 4 hours without temperature control)?
  • Are serving dishes replenished rather than adding fresh food on top of old?
  • Are leftover foods cooled to 41°F within 6 hours (or discarded if time-controlled)?
  • Service and cleanup notes

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Why Use This Catering Event Food Safety Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This catering event food safety checklist [free pdf] helps food service teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for catering manager professionals, this checklist covers 8 critical inspection points across 2 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.

Ensures compliance with FDA Food Code 2022, ServSafe Catering Guidelines. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Catering Event Food Safety Checklist [FREE PDF] cover?

This checklist covers 8 inspection items across 2 sections: Transport & Setup, Service & Cleanup. It is designed for food service operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

Who should use this Catering Event Food Safety Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This checklist is designed for Catering Manager professionals in the food service industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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