While some people argue that no chafing fuel can ever be completely safe, you can find alternatives to traditional wick-and-gel versions that might be safer. Safe chafing fuel is becoming a significant concern for caterers and buffet owners because they want to ensure that their employees and guests can get the food they desire without fear of getting burned or knocking over the fuel can and starting a fire.
What Makes It Unsafe?
Primarily, wick-and-gel fuel products use toxic materials to create fuel and ensure that the fuel smells like fuel. The problem with this is that the toxins can get into the air and people will breathe them into their lungs. Along with such, studies are inconclusive as to whether or not the toxins can seep into the food that you serve. While it probably isn’t enough to make people ill, the fact remains that most people want to avoid toxins of any sort at all costs.
Most fuels are open cans, which means if they get knocked over, the liquefied gel can spread on the table or wherever it is set up. Therefore, liquid gel can catch fire and can cause serious burns and problems for guests.
What Alternatives Are There?
Newer products are available that use eco-friendly burners. The burner itself holds the fuel, which is poured inside. It is safer because it has an automatic shut-off feature. If the burner gets overturned or knocked off the table, the product shuts itself off immediately and contains the fuel still inside.
Along with such, these fuels are designed to burn cleaner. They don’t emanate toxic fumes at all, which means your guests don’t have to smell the fuel smell when they go to get their food. Plus, your dishes don’t get that black residue from the smoke.