Illegal Food Vendors Pose Threat to Public Health, Hurt Businesses
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 15, 2010
BURLINGTON – As activities involving food and fun gain popularity during the summer months, the Alamance County Health Department’s Environmental Health Division has also seen an increase in the number of food stands operating illegally in the county this year. These food stands, usually set up along roadsides or in parking lots, can pose serious health risks and take customers away from legitimate businesses.
North Carolina Public Health Laws and Rules regulate and require a permit where food is prepared or served for pay. Environmental Health Specialists in Alamance County have investigated numerous complaints of illegal food sales and approximately a dozen vendors in recent months have been shut down. The latest incident occurred on June 9, at the corner of North Graham-Hopedale Road and Holland Avenue, just two blocks away from the health department.
By state law, these individuals cannot legally operate without first obtaining a permit. Mobile food units and push carts must also operate in conjunction with a permitted food service establishment. Permits are also issued for food or drink vendors at specials events, such as carnivals, fairs, public exhibitions, or other similar gatherings that operates for a period of 15 days or less. However, these rules do not apply to establishments which only serve items such as dip ice cream, popcorn, candied apples, or cotton candy.
Some vendors may be exempt from North Carolina regulations requiring an operational permit, such as non-profit corporations, political committees, and other organizations that are preparing food for a fundraiser. Although an operational permit may not be required for these groups, the health department must be provided information concerning the fundraiser such as a group’s official IRS Section 501(c)(3) documents, a list of foods to be sold, as well as the date and location a group will raise the funds. These groups can operate no more than once a month, for a period not to exceed two consecutive days.
The Alamance County Health Department will continue to vigilantly investigate all reports of suspected illegal food stands and enforce all food safety rules and regulations to protect the public from potential sources of foodborne illness. Anyone considering the operation of a food stand or conducting a fundraising event involving food is strongly encouraged to contact the Alamance County Health Department’ s Environmental Health Division and (336) 570-6367.