Catering establishments from restaurants to coffee shops are asked to throw baby showers for their customers. However, some very specific factors must be considered when hosting an event that will include expectant mothers. Keep reading to get the low down.
Pregnancy safe foods
First of all, the most important thing when catering a baby shower is to lay on food that is safe for pregnant (and nursing) mothers to eat. That means steering clear of unpasteurised dairy products including whole milk, and some ice creams. Cheese is also a major issue, especially as things such as mould-ripened blue and soft cheeses are so popular. Unfortunately, these often contain bacteria known as Listeria which have been linked to stillbirths and miscarriages. With that in mind, sticking to pasteurised soft (goats, cream cheese, paneer, or hard cheese (cheddar, parmesan) is the best idea.
When it comes to meats, most that are thoroughly cooked through are fine. Although game animals like goose and quail etc should be avoided. Pates too should not be on the menu for a baby shower, even ones that are marked safe for vegetarians. Liver or liver products are also a bad idea so stick to well cooked, chicken, ham, or beef.
Eggs can be used but they must be thoroughly cooked and also have the British Lion hen stamp.
It’s usually best to stay away from fish as well as there are limits to how much pregnant women can eat. For example, no more than 2 portions of oily fish are allowed, and as you won’t know what else has been consumed by the party attendees that week, it’s best to avoid them altogether. Similarly, tuna should be limited to 2 steaks a week or 4 cans so opting for another ingredient is usually safest for all concerned.
Drinks
Providing refreshments to baby shower guests is vital, and they will want something to toast the baby with. However, there is plenty to avoid here too. Alcohol in particular is something that expectant mothers need to avoid completely, so it’s best to offer an alcohol free wine alternative. When considering what to write in a baby shower card, heartfelt messages of congratulations and well wishes for the new arrival are always appreciated.
Remember too that caffeine in large quantities is not good for the baby either. To that end, make sure there is a selection of hot drinks that are not caffeinated on offer for your guests.
Favours
Lastly, when catering a baby shower is crucial to remember that guests will expect party favours. These tend to take the form of cake or biscuits themes to the shower. First of all, that means they need to be made in the colour scheme that is chosen for the shower, especially if there will be a dessert table, as this can help create cohesiveness.
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The design you choose will be up to the person throwing the shower. Some will prefer to just stick to the color scheme, while others will choose fancy cakes with fondant baby decorations, or iced biscuits with royal icing making up a range of baby theme items such as buggies, dummies, and nappies. Just be sure to check with the client beforehand and outsource if your team does not have the patisserie expertise to complete them in-house.