How to choose a caterer in South Africa
A caterer is trusted with something that can make your guests ill, so the first check is not the menu. Here is what to ask a caterer before you book: the certificate their kitchen needs, how they handle dietary requirements, and what to get in writing.
The Certificate of Acceptability
Food premises in South Africa, including a caterer's kitchen, need a Certificate of Acceptability (CoA) under the national food hygiene regulations (R638). It is issued by the local municipality after an environmental health practitioner inspects the premises.
Ask to see it, and check that the name and address on it match the caterer's kitchen, not someone else's.
Questions worth asking
- How is food kept hot or cold between the kitchen and your event, and for how long?
- Who serves, and have they been trained in food handling?
- Dietary needs: how do they handle allergies, vegetarian and vegan guests?
- Halaal or kosher: if it matters for your guests, ask for a current certificate from a recognised certifying body, not just a promise.
- Can you taste the menu before you book?
What the written quote should cover
The menu and portions per guest, the number of guests and the cut-off for changing it, staff, equipment, setup and cleanup, travel, the deposit and when the balance is due, and what happens if you cancel. Check the business is registered with CIPC before you pay a deposit.
Common questions
What certificate does a caterer need in South Africa?
A Certificate of Acceptability for their food premises, issued by the local municipality after an environmental health practitioner inspects the kitchen under the national food hygiene regulations (R638).
How do I check a halaal caterer?
Ask for a current halaal certificate from a recognised certifying body and check that it is in the caterer's name and has not expired.
What should be in a catering quote?
The menu and portions, guest numbers and the deadline for changes, staff, equipment, setup and cleanup, travel, the deposit, when the balance is due, and the cancellation terms.