AIRLINE food served in the front end of a plane by international carriers is often praised to the skies, but the fare dished out to Economy Class passengers is just as frequently compared with cardboard.
However, few critics pause to consider the logistics involved in getting a meal on to a flight.
In Hongkong, more than 2,000 people are involved in providing about 50,000 meals per day for 150 flights.
As part of Hofex '93, Hongkong Exhibition Services Ltd (HKES) is staging a specialised exhibition and show dedicated to the subject, which is supported by the International Flight Catering Association.
In-flight Services '93, the Asian International In-flight and Onboard Services show and Conference, and a conference on special meals, are running concurrently with Hofex '93 and Bakery and Confectionary '93 at the Hongkong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
''In-flight Services '93 will feature the latest technologies in the in-flight provisioning industry and provide a venue for in-flight caterers to get acquainted,'' said HKES general manager Mr Steven Seet.