VA Health Department Requirements for Mobile Kitchens

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that there are 76 million people affected by foodborne illnesses each year, which includes, 325,000 hospitalizations and 5,000 deaths. The Virginia Department of Health mandates that all mobile food kitchens follow the health regulations and operate in a safe and sanitary manner.

Health Permit

• All mobile food kitchens must have a health permit and display it in public view. The permit is valid for one year. A mobile food kitchen must undergo a menu and floor plan review before receiving a health permit. As of 2010, a health permit costs $100 and the cost for the Plan Review costs $75.

Food Temperatures

• Cold foods must stay at or below 41 degrees Fahrenheit and hot foods must stay at or above 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses thrive in temperatures between 41 and 135 degrees Fahrenheit.

Water Source

• All mobile food kitchens must have a water source from commercially bottled water or through an approved public water system in your jurisdiction.

Hand Washing Facilities

• Hand washing plays a vital role in food safety and all mobile food kitchen employees must wash their hands before handling food. They must also wear gloves when handling food. A hand sink with warm running water must be provided, as well as soap, paper towels, and a waste basket. The kitchen must display a sign designating the sink as a hand washing sink.