Inside Qatar Airways - How do they make 200,000 Airplane Meals a day?

Recent questions

• What is a biodigester used for?

  A biodigester is a system that processes organic waste, converting it into biogas and nutrient-rich fertilizer. It works by breaking down organic materials, such as food scraps and agricultural waste, through anaerobic digestion, a process that occurs in the absence of oxygen. This not only helps in managing waste effectively but also produces renewable energy in the form of biogas, which can be used for cooking or heating. Additionally, the byproducts of this process can enrich soil, making biodigesters a sustainable solution for waste management and energy production.

• How are fresh ingredients stored safely?

  Fresh ingredients are stored safely in chillers upon arrival at catering facilities. This practice is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of food products. Dedicated sections are often designated for different types of ingredients, such as vegetables, meats, and seafood, ensuring that each category is processed, washed, and sanitized properly. By controlling the temperature and environment in which these ingredients are stored, catering centers can prevent spoilage and contamination, thereby ensuring that the food prepared for customers remains fresh and safe to consume.

• What are the benefits of using fresh ingredients?

  Using fresh ingredients in food preparation offers numerous benefits, including enhanced flavor, improved nutritional value, and better food safety. Fresh ingredients typically contain higher levels of vitamins and minerals compared to processed alternatives, contributing to healthier meals. Additionally, they often provide superior taste and texture, which can significantly enhance the dining experience for customers. In catering, especially for high-end services like first and business class, the emphasis on fresh ingredients reflects a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, making meals more enjoyable and memorable.

• Why is food safety important in catering?

  Food safety is paramount in catering to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the health of consumers. Catering operations must adhere to strict hygiene and sanitation protocols, including proper storage temperatures, regular cleaning, and staff training on safe food handling practices. By maintaining these standards, catering services can minimize the risk of contamination and spoilage, which is especially critical when preparing large quantities of food for flights. Ensuring food safety not only protects customers but also upholds the reputation of the catering service, fostering trust and reliability in their offerings.

• How are meals prepared for airline passengers?

  Meals for airline passengers are meticulously prepared in specialized catering centers that focus on quality and efficiency. The process typically involves a main hot kitchen where chefs create a variety of dishes, ensuring that each meal meets strict taste and appearance standards. Ingredients are carefully selected and processed, with a rotating omelet-making machine and high-pressure cooking kettles used to produce large volumes of food. Each meal is composed of multiple components, and quality control measures, such as centralized tasting tables, are implemented to guarantee that the final product is both delicious and visually appealing for passengers.