Determining Food Quantities

At first glance, determining food quantities for a catered event seems simple and straightforward: To calculate the amount of cooked food required, simply multiply the portion size by the projected number of guests. In banquet planning, this is typically the only calculation needed. So, for example, if you are serving 6 oz (168 g) baked salmon fillets to 100 guests, simply multiply 6 oz (168 g) (portion size) by 100 (number of guests). Thus, you need 600 oz (1680 g) or 37½ lb

(16.80 kg) salmon fillets. Determining portion size is easy for banquet and à la carte service because customers consume only one item per course, and that item is portion-controlled in the kitchen.