Selecting Before a Meal
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Question
In the laws of selecting, it is mentioned that one of the conditions is "immediately before the meal." Does it count as "immediately before the meal" if it is more than half an hour before the meal?
Answer
Shalom Rav
It is permissible to select immediately before the meal what is needed for that meal. If it is a large meal with many participants and there is a need to select many items and the selection takes a long time, it is permitted.
[However, in the name of the Chazon Ish, it is said that there is no permission to select earlier than half an hour before the meal, even if more time is needed].
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Siman 319, סעיף א
And all that is selected for that meal in which he immediately participates is considered immediate. And even if others eat with him, it is permitted.
Mishna Berura there, סעיף קטן ו
And even if others etc. - this means that one can select for all the participants of the meal
Azmera Lishmecha 203.