How many pounds of macaroni salad for 30 people?

It's impossible to say exactly how many pounds of macaroni salad you'll need for 30 people without knowing:

* Appetite: Are these adults, kids, or a mix? Are they known for big appetites or light eaters?

* Other food: Is this the main dish, a side dish, or part of a buffet?

* Portion size: Do you want to be generous with portions or just give a small amount?

Here's a general guideline:

* Light appetizer: 1/2 to 3/4 cup per person (about 1.5 to 2.25 pounds total)

* Side dish: 1 to 1.5 cups per person (about 3 to 4.5 pounds total)

* Main dish: 2 to 3 cups per person (about 6 to 9 pounds total)

Recommendation: For 30 people, aim for 3-4 pounds of macaroni salad as a side dish, and adjust up or down based on the factors listed above.