Frequently Asked Questions
A commercial bain marie provides a practical way to hold prepared hot food ready for service.
What is a bain marie?
A bain marie is a piece of food holding equipment commonly used to keep prepared food warm before and during service. Commercial models can hold containers or pots containing foods such as soups, sauces, vegetables, curries and gravies. They are widely used in restaurants, buffets, hotels, canteens and other professional catering environments.
What can you put in a bain marie?
A bain marie can be used to hold many types of prepared hot food, depending on the individual unit. Common examples include soups, sauces, gravy, curries, vegetables and other dishes that need to remain warm during service. Always follow appropriate food safety procedures and the instructions supplied with your equipment.
What temperature should a bain marie be?
A bain marie should be operated according to the manufacturer's instructions while ensuring food is held safely. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, hot food being held for service generally needs to be kept at 63°C or above. The temperature setting on the appliance itself may need to differ from the actual food temperature, so food should be checked appropriately during service.
How long can you keep food in a bain marie?
How long food can remain in a bain marie depends on its temperature, the type of food and the food safety procedures being followed. As a general guide, hot food can be held for up to four hours when kept at the correct temperature. However, food quality, texture and appearance may decline over time. Always monitor food temperatures and follow relevant food safety guidance.
Can a bain marie be used for a buffet?
Yes. Commercial bain maries can be particularly useful for buffet and self-service environments where prepared dishes need to be kept warm and ready to serve. The appropriate size and configuration will depend on the number of dishes being offered, expected customer numbers and available serving space.
Where can I buy a commercial bain marie?
At IG Group, we supply commercial bain maries and food warmers for restaurants, hotels, cafes, care homes, schools, canteens and other professional catering environments, with competitive prices and fast UK delivery.
From compact countertop bain marie food warmers to larger catering and mobile units, we offer hot food holding equipment for a variety of professional environments. Explore our commercial bain maries from Buffalo, Lincat, Genware, Parry and other catering brands to find the right size and configuration for your service.
