This article on funeral catering and what food to eat at funerals is provided by Sydney Coffins. Sydney Coffins is a memorial product and funeral provider in Australia, specialising in unique and personalised Coffins, Caskets and Funerals.

Providing food or catering for a funeral depends on the culture, religion, and the family of the deceased. Post-funeral receptions generally do not take a whole day and therefore the food should reflect this. These occasions are really an opportunity for people to catch up and reminisce.

 

The best food for a post-funeral reception

It is generally recommended to provide a variety of food so all guests can choose what best suits them.There is an advantage to keeping food provided for funerals simple and in as finger food.  These simple foods can be eaten while standing. Remember that people are not expecting anything too fancy, just familiar, comforting food. Note that most people tend to avoid heavy foods and slices of cake tend to get left behind as they are not convenient to hold and eat. Provide food that does not make peoples oily or difficult for people to put food down and shake hands or hug someone.

For this reason, we recommend the following food for funerals.

– Sweet – For people who have eaten prior to the funeral or those with a sweet tooth.
Cakes or slices, muffins, cupcakes, biscuits

– Fruit – For the people not very hungry or health conscientious.
Fruit Platter

– Savoury –  For the people who have not eaten.
Fresh sandwiches, quiches, cheese platter

– Hot food – For those who are wanting hot food.
Pies, pasties and sausage rolls could be an option where heating services are available however remember that plates may need to be provided with heated food.

Hot drinks and beverages –Ensure hot drinks are available for the older guests who often choose beverages before food. Also, predict that accidents can happen or children may be present so do not have objects on tables that can spill over. Instead, use the larger self-serve dispensers which cannot fall over.
Tea and Coffee facilities

Where are post-funeral receptions held?

– Social Hall

– Religious venue or place of worship

– Family’s home

– Restaurant, cafe

Who organises the food for a post-funeral reception?

You have 3 options when it comes to who organises the catering and food for a funeral.

– You can choose your own funeral caterer.

– Ask the Funeral Director to choose a funeral caterer.

– You can cook and take your own food.