How many pounds of deli ham to feed 50?

Do you want to feed them or fatten them? Four oz of cooked meat is an adequate serving for an adult male at a single meal. If you're planning a huge celebration meal you may want to cater for a larger portion per head but remember that the diners will be eating other food as well.

If you are baking ham on the bone for Xmas you will need to estimate in the weight of the bone, skin and fat as well - your butcher should be able to help you. An advantage of baking a ham is that it does not have to all be demolished at a single sitting but can go on feeding a family over the holiday period. It can be more economical do do this rather than buying ready cut meat from the delicatessan.