Challenges of Catering on a Film Set & How We Overcome Them

Providing on-set catering services for film and TV productions is no ordinary task. It’s a high-pressure, fast-moving environment where mealtimes must align with strict production schedules, dietary needs must be accommodated, and locations can change at a moment’s notice. At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we’ve mastered the art of delivering exceptional on-location meal services, ensuring cast and crew get the fuel they need to perform at their best.

In this blog, we’ll explore the biggest challenges of catering for film locations and how our expert team navigates them with efficiency, flexibility, and innovation.

1. Feeding Large Crews with Strict Schedules

Film sets operate like well-oiled machines, and on-set catering services must fit seamlessly into this system. Crews work long hours, often with minimal downtime, meaning meals must be ready precisely when needed.

How We Overcome It:

• Precision Timing – We coordinate closely with production teams to ensure meals are served exactly when scheduled, avoiding disruptions to filming
• Streamlined Service – Our experienced team delivers fast, efficient meal distribution to prevent long wait times.
• Multiple Serving Points – When necessary, we establish multiple food stations to accommodate large casts and crews.

With our commitment to 24/7 catering for TV & Film, we ensure that no one goes hungry—whether it’s an early morning breakfast call or a late-night wrap meal.

2. Managing Unpredictable & Remote Locations

Many productions take place in challenging, remote environments, from rugged countryside landscapes to urban backstreets. These locations often lack kitchen facilities, making mobile catering for sets a necessity.

How We Overcome It:

• Fully Equipped Mobile Kitchens – We bring everything we need, from ovens to refrigeration, allowing us to prepare fresh meals anywhere.
• Adaptable Menus – Some remote locations have limited access to suppliers, so we plan menus that balance high quality with availability.
• Backup Power & Equipment – To avoid disruptions, we come prepared with  backup gas supplies, and contingency plans.

Our expertise in catering for film locations means we can provide top-quality food no matter where the production takes us.

3. Handling a Variety of Dietary Requirements

A diverse cast and crew mean a wide range of dietary needs, from vegan and gluten-free to high-protein and allergy-friendly meals. Ensuring on-location meal services cater to everyone is a challenge—but one we welcome.

How We Overcome It:

• Custom Menus for Every Diet – We create balanced meal plans that include vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free options.
• Allergy Awareness – Our team follows strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination, ensuring every crew member can eat with confidence.
• Flexible Meal Adjustments – If a last-minute dietary request comes in, we adapt quickly to accommodate it.

We believe that great food fuels great work, so we make sure every crew member gets a meal they enjoy.

4. Adapting to Changing Schedules & Last-Minute Requests

Film productions are unpredictable. Scenes may take longer than expected, call times can shift, and new catering requests can arise with little notice. On-set catering services must be flexible enough to pivot without disrupting meal service.

How We Overcome It:

• Real-Time Coordination – We stay in constant contact with production coordinators to adjust meal timings as needed.
• Rapid Response Team – Our experienced catering crew is trained to adapt quickly to last-minute changes.
• Backup Meal Plans – We always have additional meal options available in case of schedule overruns.

No matter how many last-minute changes arise, we ensure that on-location meal services remain seamless and stress-free.

5. Ensuring Food Quality & Safety on Set

Maintaining high food standards in a mobile catering environment requires careful planning and execution. Temperature control, hygiene, and safety regulations must be met at all times.

How We Overcome It:

• Temperature-Controlled Storage – We use specialised equipment to keep ingredients fresh and meals at the correct serving temperature.
• Strict Hygiene Standards – Our team follows rigorous food safety protocols, ensuring a clean and sanitary environment.
• Regular Quality Checks – We continuously monitor food quality from preparation to serving, ensuring every meal meets our high standards.

At Rhubarb Rhubarb, quality is never compromised—whether we’re serving breakfast on a freezing mountaintop or lunch on a bustling city set.

6. Supporting Sustainability in Film Catering

The film industry is increasingly focused on sustainability, and on-set catering services must align with these goals. Reducing food waste, minimising packaging, and sourcing ethically are key priorities.

How We Overcome It:

• Locally Sourced Ingredients – We prioritise fresh, seasonal produce from trusted suppliers.
• Eco-Friendly Packaging – We use biodegradable and compostable packaging to cut down on plastic waste.
• Food Waste Reduction Strategies – Our portioning strategies and donation programs help minimise waste.

By integrating sustainability into our catering for film locations, we help productions meet their environmental commitments.

Why Rhubarb Rhubarb is the Perfect Partner for On-Set Catering Services

With years of experience in on-location meal services, we understand the unique challenges of catering for film and TV. Our commitment to efficiency, flexibility, and quality ensures that every production we cater for runs smoothly.

Here’s why clients trust Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering:

•  Industry Experience – We’ve catered for productions of all sizes, from commercials to high-profile sets.
•  24/7 Service – We’re ready whenever you need us, with round-the-clock catering support.
•  Customisable Menus – Tailored to suit every dietary preference and production requirement.
•  Reliable, Professional Team – Experts in handling the high-pressure environment of film catering.

If you’re looking for mobile catering for sets that meets the highest standards, we’d love to work with you.

Get in touch today to discuss your production’s catering needs!

Meeting the Challenges of Film & TV Catering

Providing top-tier on-set catering services requires more than just great food. It demands adaptability, efficiency, and a deep understanding of the film industry’s unique challenges. At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we thrive under pressure, ensuring cast and crew are well-fed, energised, and ready to deliver their best work.

Looking for reliable, high-quality on-location meal services for your next production? Contact us today—let’s make mealtimes on set as smooth as possible.