Catering buyer planning quantities
For a large buffet, you’ll need to work out the total weight required and how many packs to order. The pack size and the intended number of portions can help you match your order to the number of guests.
Who needs to make this choice?
Organiser of a self-service buffet
If the break is short, pre-sliced cake means less to do when setting up the buffet. With an uncut cake, someone will need to take responsibility for slicing and presenting it.
Planner responsible for allergen information
If the cake is served unpackaged, allergen information must be available to guests. So check the latest packaging for every variety that will be served on the buffet.
What should you look for when buying?
Start by working out how much you need and how much time you have for preparation. Then check how you’ll make allergen information available for each variety when serving it.
| What to consider | What to check before buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Quantity required | Compare the pack weight with the number of portions you need and work out how many packs to buy. | For a large buffet, I want to buy enough cake without basing the quantity solely on the number of packs. An estimated 40% of consumers would put the quantity required first. |
| Quick service | Check whether the cake is pre-sliced and who will present the slices. | During a short break, I want to be able to put the slices out straight away rather than cutting them on the spot. Ease of serving would be the top priority for around 30% of consumers. |
| Allergen information | Read the latest label for each variety and arrange how guests will access the information if the cake is served unpackaged. | If I open packs for the buffet, I want to be able to tell guests which allergens are present before they choose. This would be the main concern for around 20% of consumers. |
| Requested variety | Check that the description on the pack matches the request, for example wholemeal or no added sugar. | When the catering request specifies a particular variety, I want to see that exact description on the pack. An estimated 10% of consumers would ask about that variety first. |
Common pitfalls
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Choosing an uncut cake without a serving plan
For a busy buffet, the cake still needs to be sliced and presented. This takes preparation time and someone needs to take responsibility for it.
Before buying, decide who will slice the cake and when the buffet will be set up. If there isn’t time for this, a pre-sliced variety may fit your schedule better.
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Guessing the allergens from the product name
A variety’s name doesn’t tell you which allergens are listed on the latest packaging. If the cake is served unpackaged, guests need this information to make an informed choice.
Check every pack you open. Make the relevant allergen information available to guests at the buffet before they choose anything.
Brands to consider
PLUS
PLUS offers plain Dutch breakfast cake in an uncut 550 g pack and a pre-sliced 485 g pack.
- The two pack sizes let you choose between slicing it yourself and serving it straight away within the same product range.
- Check the latest label before serving; the product information lists rye and cereals containing gluten.
Jumbo
Jumbo’s own-brand range includes plain Dutch breakfast cake in a 550 g pack, as well as pre-sliced varieties.
- The different pack sizes give you flexibility to match your choice to the buffet plan.
- Check the pack weight and latest product information for each variety you choose.
Koek & Bakker (ALDI)
ALDI’s Koek & Bakker range includes pre-sliced wholemeal Dutch breakfast cake in a 485 g pack and a pre-sliced variety with no added sugar.
- These varieties are worth considering when the catering request specifies a particular description.
- Check the variety and availability at the relevant shop.
Albert Heijn
Albert Heijn’s own-brand range includes pre-sliced wholemeal and plain Dutch breakfast cake in 485 g packs.
- Both varieties mentioned are pre-sliced and ready to serve on a buffet.
- Wholemeal and plain are different varieties, so check which one is specified in the catering request.
Peijnenburg
Peijnenburg offers various types of Dutch breakfast cake, including pre-sliced and individually wrapped varieties.
- Individually wrapped portions may be a good fit when you want to serve them separately.
- Check the pack size, ingredients and allergen information for each variety separately.
Dutch breakfast cake at Joybuy
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to provide allergen information if I open the cake for the buffet?
Yes. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority says allergen information must be available to guests when food is served unpackaged. Check the latest packaging for each variety you choose and make sure guests can access the information before they make their choice.
Is pre-sliced Dutch breakfast cake always more convenient for a conference?
Pre-sliced cake is especially suitable when you need to set up a buffet quickly. If someone can slice and present it in advance, an uncut pack is also an option. Choose whichever preparation method fits your schedule.
Does Dutch breakfast cake automatically contain iodine from baker’s salt?
No, you can’t tell from the product category alone. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre says using baker’s salt is not compulsory. Check the information for the specific cake or ask the manufacturer if this matters for your catering request.
How should I store Dutch breakfast cake before the conference?
Follow the storage instructions on the pack you choose. The plain Dutch breakfast cake from PLUS mentioned here should be stored in a cool, dry and dark place. Check the label for other varieties, including any instructions for after opening.