Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a system for providing adaptive processing and delivery of food catering orders. The system includes a computer server configured to store schedule information, a website operatively associated with the computer server to receive food catering orders, and a commissary to produce food elements arranged within one or more boxes. The schedule information includes a delivery zone, at least one delivery shift associated with the delivery zone, and a plurality of time slots associated with the at least one delivery shift, which can be adjusted according to certain inputs. A method includes receiving a food catering order, determining whether a selected time slot within a delivery schedule is available for the order, and either storing information about the order in a server or making an offer for an alternative actions. Embodiments of the invention also include shifting delivery resources between adjacent delivery zones.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for arranging, transporting, and/or serving food is provided to improve various aspects of food catering. A food handling apparatus includes a base platter having a predefined pattern of food location indicators thereon. Food elements are arranged on the base platter according to the predefined pattern. The apparatus includes food cell members configured to cover the food elements, maintain a separation of the food elements one from another, and protect the food elements from damage. The apparatus includes a lid positioned over the food cell members and attached to the base platter. At a serving location, the food cell members are uncovered from the food cell members, thereby revealing the food elements in the predefined pattern without additional handling of the food elements. The food elements can therefore be efficiently transferred through a food catering logistics chain while maintaining quality and appearance, and reducing contamination and illness.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for arranging, transporting, and/or serving food is provided to improve various aspects of food catering. A food handling apparatus includes a base platter having a predefined pattern of food location indicators thereon. Food elements are arranged on the base platter according to the predefined pattern. The apparatus includes food cell members configured to cover the food elements, maintain a separation of the food elements one from another, and protect the food elements from damage. The apparatus includes a lid positioned over the food cell members and attached to the base platter. At a serving location, the food cell members are uncovered from the food cell members, thereby revealing the food elements in the predefined pattern without additional handling of the food elements. The food elements can therefore be efficiently transferred through a food catering logistics chain while maintaining quality and appearance, and reducing contamination and illness.