Tom,
you bring up an interesting concept that I have not pondered (but probably subconsciously evolved into myself) - and wonder what your thoughts are (and maybe this is a different thread - if so, please move or start)
given the issues with catering long-haul, it seems much easier and maybe cheaper to feed (and drink) people in Polaris lounges before they fly
...easier to cater the major hub lounges than deal with the headaches of outbound flights (esp at night?)
of course - on return flights, it forces the passengers to tank up in MUC/EWR/GRU/LRD/etc/etc before boarding?
-michael