Following an increase in unpermitted food carts, Clark County Public Health is urging the community to only purchase food from permitted vendors. Food service permits ensure the vendor is safely handling, storing and preparing food to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Unpermitted food carts began appearing regularly at RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater at 17200 NE Delfel Road in Ridgefield one month ago. The vendors sell hotdogs from makeshift food carts that are not equipped to safely store or prepare food, a Clark County Public Health news release on Sept. 24 stated.
“These unpermitted food carts are dangerous and putting people at risk for foodborne illness,” Clark County health officer and Public Health Director Dr. Alan Melnick said in the release.
The number of unpermitted food carts has increased, and the vendors have continued unsafe operations despite Public Health’s directions, the news release stated.
Clark County Public Health is now working with Clark County Sheriff’s Office and RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater’s concert management and entertainment company, Live Nation, to find a that will protect the community’s health, the news release stated.
Community members can protect themselves from foodborne illnesses by only consuming food from permitted establishments. Permitted vendors practice safe food handling, storage and preparation while undergoing routine inspections by Public Health, the release stated.
Permitted vendors are legally required to display their service operating permits for customers. Permits may also be checked online at clark.wa.gov/public-health/restaurant-inspection.
