When loading trays, where should heavy items be placed?

When loading trays, placing heavy items in the middle of the tray is the best practice because it helps maintain balance and stability. The center of the tray acts as the primary point for weight distribution, which minimizes the risk of tipping or spilling. This is particularly important when maneuvering through crowded areas, as a well-balanced tray is easier to handle and less likely to cause accidents.

Placing items on the edge of the tray or spreading them unevenly can lead to an imbalanced situation, increasing the chances of the tray tipping over. Similarly, stacking heavier items on top of lighter ones can compromise the stability of the lighter items, potentially leading to them being crushed or the entire arrangement becoming unstable. By focusing on centering weight, servers can ensure a safer and more efficient serving process.