For pubs, it is important to weigh up all the options before investing in an expensive piece of kit. CESA, the Catering Equipment Suppliers Association, offers some advice about this increasingly popular cooking method.
Hog and spit roasts are significant profit opportunities - and not just in the summer; many pubs now serve them throughout the year, at both indoor and outdoor events.
They look great, are ideal for pubs with big gardens and create a real 'sizzling' focal point. It can be easy to be put off if you've never used one before, but the equipment is not complicated - although it does require a certain amount of planning.
A reputable supplier will be able to give you all the information and training you need to get cooking. However, while there are plenty of hog and spit roasters around, buyers need to be careful - quite a few don't carry the CE mark.
A CE mark indicates that a product has met EU safety requirements. It's a mandatory requirement on catering equipment sold in the EU, so if it doesn't have the CE mark then it's not legal for you to use.
It's also vital to talk to a trustworthy supplier. If you're not sure where to buy from, contact a reputable dealer or check out the CESA list of manufacturers online.
If you're not planning to do many hog roasts each year, or if you want to try before you buy, it may be worth considering the option of hiring the equipment rather than buying outright - as with buying, check the roaster is CE marked. n
- The Catering Equipment Suppliers Association (CESA) represents over 130 companies who supply, service and maintain all types of commercial catering equipment - from utensils to full kitchen schemes. For more information on CESA visit www.cesa.org.uk