COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Health and Human Services Environmental Health has noted an increase in unlicensed food vendors throughout the County. These vendors pose a high risk of serious foodborne illness due to unsanitary conditions and should be avoided.
The vendors in question are generally set up near sidewalks, in parking lots, and sometimes on the side of roadways, and have not been inspected or licensed by Coconino County Health and Human Services. It is important to note that the businesses referenced in this release should not be confused with the vast majority of licensed street and mobile food vendors that employ safe food practices.
Mobile vendors that have gone through the licensing process and have been approved by CCHHS Environmental Health should display the licenses or permits shown below.
Cottage Food vendors approved by the Arizona Department of Health Services to sell food made in home kitchens must have a certificate of approval to operate, as shown below.
Permits and licenses issued by CCHHS require vendors to follow fundamental food safety practices, such as handwashing, maintaining proper food temperatures, and obtaining food from approved sources, which reduces the risk of foodborne illness. Certificates issued under the Cottage Food Program by the Arizona Department of Health Services also require vendors to follow important food safety practices, including packaging and labeling the food items with a clear ingredient list.
If you have concerns about a food operation or become ill from eating at a food establishment or street vendor, please contact CCHHS Environmental Health at (928) 679-8760 or environmentalhealth@coconino.az.gov.
Visit our website at coconino.az.gov/EnvironmentalHealth for additional information.