How We Adapt Our Menus for Live Event Catering

May 29, 2025

Live events, whether they’re high-profile sports matches or fast-paced TV broadcasts, require precise coordination—and that extends to catering. With strict production schedules, demanding locations, and crews working around the clock, Outside Broadcast (OB) Catering plays a crucial role in ensuring that teams stay well-fed and energised.

At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we specialise in catering for sports events and live TV catering services, providing fresh, high-quality food tailored to the unique challenges of outdoor catering for OB teams. Whether it’s a stadium broadcast or a field-side production, our food trucks for OB productions ensure that delicious, nutritious meals are always on hand.

Here’s how we adapt our menus to meet the fast-moving demands of live event catering.

1. Flexible Menus for a Non-Stop Industry

Unlike traditional catering, Outside Broadcast (OB) Catering must align with irregular and unpredictable schedules. Crew members work long shifts with staggered meal breaks, requiring menus that offer variety, flexibility, and fast service.

How We Adapt:

  • Staggered Meal Service – Offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night meals to match shift patterns.
  • Quick Grab-and-Go Options – Fresh sandwiches, wraps, and salads for those on tight turnaround times.
  • Hot & Hearty Meals – Filling dishes for crew members who need sustenance during long hours outdoors.

By designing live TV catering services that accommodate different roles—from camera operators to presenters—we ensure no one goes hungry on set.

2. Nutrition-Boosting Meals for High-Energy Crews

Sports events and live broadcasts require intense focus and endurance. Whether it’s a football final or a live awards show, the people working behind the scenes need meals that provide sustained energy without weighing them down.

How We Adapt:

  • Protein-Rich Dishes – Lean meats, eggs, and plant-based proteins to fuel long working hours.
  • Balanced & Healthy Choices – Fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lighter options for those who prefer a healthier meal.
  • Comfort Food for Morale – Familiar, hearty meals like hot breakfasts, pasta dishes, and warming soups to keep spirits high.

Our catering for sports events ensures that presenters, commentators, and technical teams get the right fuel to perform at their best, on and off-camera.

3. Outdoor Catering: Serving Fresh Food in Any Location

Many OB productions take place in outdoor locations, from race tracks and football stadiums to remote filming sites. This creates challenges for food preparation, service, and storage, but our mobile catering solutions mean we can serve fresh, hot meals anywhere.

How We Adapt:

  • Fully Equipped Food Trucks for OB Productions – Bringing a full kitchen setup to any location.
  • Self-Sufficient Pop-Up Kitchens – Designed for locations with limited infrastructure.
  • Temperature-Controlled Storage – Keeping ingredients fresh and meals at the perfect temperature.

Whether it’s outdoor catering for OB teams on a muddy field or a rooftop broadcast in the city, we bring the same high standard of catering to every event.

4. Speed & Efficiency: Serving Large Crews Without Delays

During live events, every second counts. Crew members can’t afford long meal breaks, and delays in catering can impact the overall production schedule. That’s why we focus on speed and efficiency when serving meals on-site.

How We Adapt:

  • Multiple Serving Stations – Reducing wait times by having several catering points.
  • Pre-Plated & Customisable Options – Offering a mix of quick, pre-prepared meals and made-to-order dishes.
  • Pre-Ordered Meal Systems – Allowing crew members to select meals in advance for seamless service.

By integrating fast and efficient catering solutions, we ensure that Outside Broadcast (OB) Catering never interferes with the fast-paced nature of live events.

5. Dietary Inclusivity: Catering for All Needs

A diverse production team means diverse dietary requirements. From vegetarian and vegan meals to allergy-friendly options, we ensure that everyone on set has a meal that suits their preferences.

How We Adapt:

  • Plant-Based & Gluten-Free Options – High-quality alternatives that don’t compromise on flavour.
  • Allergen-Aware Preparation – Preventing cross-contamination for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Custom Menus for Large Crews – Tailoring meal plans to accommodate different dietary preferences.

Our live TV catering services are designed to include everyone, ensuring no crew member is left out when it’s time to eat.

6. Sustainability in OB Catering

With an increasing focus on sustainability in live events, catering services must minimise waste, use eco-friendly materials, and source responsibly. At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we are committed to sustainable OB catering without compromising on quality.

Our Sustainability Initiatives:

  • Biodegradable Packaging – Reducing plastic waste at live events.
  • Locally Sourced Ingredients – Supporting local suppliers and reducing transport emissions.
  • Food Waste Reduction Programs – Implementing portion control and donation strategies.

By ensuring eco-conscious practices in catering for sports events and live TV, we help productions meet green standards while delivering outstanding food.

Why Choose Rhubarb Rhubarb for Outside Broadcast (OB) Catering?

At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we understand the demanding nature of live event catering. With experience in OB productions, sports events, and live TV, we offer reliable, high-quality catering solutions tailored to fast-paced broadcast environments.

Why Clients Trust Us:

  • Expertise in Live Event Catering – Years of experience in large-scale event catering.
  • Mobile & Flexible Catering Solutions – From food trucks for OB productions to on-site kitchens.
  • Fast, Efficient Service – Keeping up with live broadcast schedules.
  • Sustainable & High-Quality Food – Fresh, locally sourced ingredients with eco-conscious practices.

Need professional catering for your next live event or OB production? Get in touch today to discuss your requirements!

Final Thoughts: Adapting Menus for Live Event Catering

Outside Broadcast (OB) Catering isn’t just about serving food—it’s about delivering fresh, energising meals that fit into the demanding world of live productions. At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we take pride in offering fast, flexible, and high-quality catering solutions that help TV crews, sports teams, and production staff perform at their best.

Looking for expert OB catering services? Contact us today to find out how we can support your next live event!

Adam Little Chef

Adam Little

Chef & Owner Adam Little boasts a 17-year career, gaining extensive experience across various catering sectors and shaping his unique style. His dedication to quality food and excellent customer service led him to Location Catering, where he served as Chef Manager on numerous productions. Adam and his team are committed to delivering great food, exceptional service, and a welcoming environment, always on time.