Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) has sounded an alarm over the rise of unlicensed food vendors throughout the area, who might be skirting key sanitary regulations, putting public health at risk. A recent public notice underscores the heightened danger of foodborne illnesses these businesses could pose.
CCHHS points out that the unlicensed food operations typically set up shop on sidewalks, in parking lots, and sometimes roadside, have not been subject to their inspection or licensing — a vital checkpoint for ensuring food safety. Still, it's important to separate these vendors from the majority of street and mobile food vendors that consistently follow safe food handling, as CCHHS emphasizes, according to the Coconino County Official Website.
Look for visible licenses or permits from CCHHS Environmental Health on mobile vendors. These permits signify that the vendor has been given the green light, having met food safety requirements, such as meticulous handwashing and keeping food at appropriate temperatures. Additionally, Cottage Food vendors need to have a certificate of operation approved by the Arizona Department of Health Services, which aligns with key food safety practices including proper packaging and clear ingredient labeling.
If you have food safety doubts or get sick after eating at a questionable food vendor, contact CCHHS Environmental Health to report your concerns. They can be reached at (928) 679-8760 or via email at [email protected].
