Sustainable culinary experience: a complete guide 

According to the 2024 State of the Industry Meeting Planner Survey, sustainability is the third top trend in meetings, after diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and attendee well-being. With such shifts in priorities, the hospitality industry is having to rethink how to deliver more sustainable services, and culinary experiences are what’s top of everyone's mind. 

In this article, we’ll offer some innovative approaches to greener culinary experiences and explain why venues must focus on environmentally conscious catering solutions.

Why does sustainable culinary matter?

Support local economies

By sourcing ingredients locally, venues can support the local economy and regional farmers and producers. Also, this practice reduces emissions from long distance transportation of food delivery.

Reduce food waste

One of the most important aspects of sustainable dining is about creative ways to reduce food waste. Restaurants that prioritise sustainability usually rely on eco-friendly methods like composting, using every part of an ingredient, and creating dishes with surplus produce.

Attendees expect it

As people become more aware of climate change and environmental issues, they are looking for businesses that reflect their values. A Nielsen report states that 66% of global consumers are okay with paying more for sustainable brands. It presents an opportunity for restaurants and hotels to stand out in a crowded market by showing off their sustainability credentials.

Top 7 sustainable catering ideas

1. Source locally and seasonally

One of the easiest ways to offer a sustainable food catering experience is to source locally and seasonally. This has multiple benefits: it reduces the carbon footprint from food transportation, supports the local economy and provides fresher, better-quality ingredients.

When ingredients come from nearby farms and suppliers, not only is transportation reduced, but so is the connection to local culture and flavours. For example, a venue in Spain might source their olive oil from a local producer and a hotel in France might feature local cheeses and wines. Attendees love to know that their meals are rooted in the region they are visiting, making the experience more authentic and memorable.

Seasonality is also key to sustainability. By designing menus around what’s in season, you can lower the need for energy-intensive storage. Seasonal menus also encourage creativity in the kitchen as chefs can create innovative fresh dishes that match what’s in season.

2. Plant-based menu

Plant-based diets are on the rise for health and environmental reasons, so they are a smart choice for sustainable catering. Therefore, offering plant-based options at events is a no-brainer. It caters to a growing demographic of attendees who prefer vegetarian or vegan meals and decreases the environmental impact of food production.

Livestock faming is resource-hungry--it requires a lot of water, land, and feed. Therefore, by offering more plant-based options like quinoa salads, chickpea stews, or grilled vegetables, venues can help reduce your venue's carbon footprint as well as appeal to health-conscious guests. And for those that already have a wide range of plant-based options in their dining services, such venues can further extend these for large events and show meeting planners that they are committed to eco-friendly practices.

3. Food waste

Food waste is a huge global problem. For instance, the UK alone throws away 9.5 million tonnes of food waste annually. According to some estimates, one-third of all food produced is wasted, and a lot of this comes from the hospitality industry. That is why event planners looking to reduce the environmental impact of their events usually prefer partnering with venues with a food waste policy.

Reducing food waste starts with planning. Work closely with event organisers to accurately calculate how much food is needed based on attendee numbers and preferences to avoid over-preparation, which is a major cause of waste. Similarly, offering smaller portions or buffet-style dining where guests can choose how much they want to eat also solves this problem.

Venues can also donate any leftover food to local shelters or charities. This reduces waste, gives back to the community and aligns venues with their social responsibility goals. Composting programmes can also effectively manage residual food, turning waste into a resource, not a landfill.

4. Reducing single-use plastics

As events get bigger, so does the amount of waste from disposable packaging, utensils, and serving materials. You can reduce your environmental footprint by choosing sustainable, biodegradable alternatives instead of traditional single-use plastics. Offering compostable plates, utensils, and food containers is one way to do that.

For example, using reusable glassware and dishware are great alternatives to save on waste. Even for outdoor events where disposable items may be necessary, you can opt for compostable or biodegradable products made from bamboo or cornstarch.

The same goes for bottled water. Instead of handing out single-use plastic bottles, consider setting up water refill stations where guests can use their reusable bottles. Not only does this reduce plastic waste, but it also creates a more premium event experience.

Recyclable waste like cardboard boxes and packaging should be sorted and sent for recycling instead of going into general waste.

1. Save energy and water

Beyond the food itself, how it’s prepared can have a big impact on a venue’s sustainability. Eco-friendly kitchens use energy-efficient appliances, reduce water waste, and implement recycling and composting programmes to reduce their footprint.

A straightforward way is to invest in energy-efficient ovens, dishwashers, and fridges, which use less electricity than the old ones. Water-saving initiatives like low-flow taps and dishwashers also help conserve one of the world’s most precious resources.

2. Engage guests through culinary experiences

Creating culinary experiences goes beyond just serving food; it’s about engaging guests in unique ways that showcase sustainability. Offer cooking classes featuring local ingredients or organise farm tours where attendees can meet the producers behind their meals. 

Storytelling in the dining experience – sharing the journey of each dish from farm to table – can create a deeper connection between guests and their meals. This narrative approach will engage guests more and highlight the importance of supporting sustainable practices.

3. Work with local communities

Another sustainable catering practice is to actively partner with local communities. Work with local artisans, farmers, and producers to showcase their unique offerings that reflect local culture and cuisine. For example, hosting events with local chefs or showcasing traditional cooking methods will give guests an immersive culinary experience and, at the same time, support local businesses.

And participating in community outreach initiatives focused on sustainability will further cement your commitment to sustainable culinary.

Showcase your sustainability achievements on Venue Directory

Following sustainable catering practices is a big step towards being environmentally responsible, but it’s equally important to get the word out. 

That’s where Venue Directory comes in. 

With over 378,845 unique meeting spaces in 310 cities, Venue Directory is the perfect online platform to showcase your commitment to sustainability. List your certifications, detail your sustainable initiatives and share your achievements to stand out as a greener venue choice for meetings and event planners. 

By doing so, you’ll boost your venue’s reputation and also help build a more sustainable future for the hospitality industry.