Abstract
The subject of this thesis is the contribution which changes in operating practices and procedures can make to achieving savings in the use of energy in certain areas of catering. The research has concentrated upon the preparation, cooking and serving of food and has been based upon a number of field studies carried out at locations chosen to be representational of each sector of the industry. The previous work in this area is reviewed and catering processes examined. A research methodology based upon sampling has been developed and used to obtain information at the field study sites on energy flows, equipment utilisation and areas where energy might be saved. The findings of the field studies are presented and analysed in a number of ways in order to assess the savings potential. Catering equipment has been found to be operated in an empty condition for overlong periods and to be generally underfilled. Apart from this the main areas of employee malpractice concerned doors left open and equipment operated without lids. Maintenance faults and gas flame maladjustment are also noted as areas where savings may be achieved. The main conclusion is that about 20% of the energy input of the areas studied can be saved by relatively simple changes in operating practice, and without significant capital investment. The areas where the savings can be achieved are shown and the potential savings are calculated in detail. Areas where further research effort might be beneficial were revealed in the study and are set down in the conclusions.