As summer brings a packed calendar of fairs, festivals, and farmers markets, the Environmental Health Division of the Henry and Stark County Health Departments is urging anyone planning to serve food at public events to comply with updated food safety regulations. Organizers and vendors must submit required applications in advance, with specific deadlines for both event coordinators and individual food providers. Home-prepared foods remain prohibited unless properly permitted, and cottage food operators have additional registration steps.
Organizers planning to serve food at local events are reminded that proper permits and paperwork are required. The Health Department emphasizes that anyone offering food to the public, including free samples, must apply in advance and meet sanitation standards. Applications, with the appropriate fee, must be submitted at least five business days before the event to avoid late charges. Food cannot be prepared in unlicensed kitchens or homes. Event coordinators need to file forms ten business days ahead, while Cottage Food Operators must submit extra documentation, including water samples. When in doubt about regulations, officials urge contacting the department to avoid violations.
Megan Washburn, Food Program Manager with the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, states, “The aim of this process is not to dictate rules but to educate our community on best practices. We have seen a lot of rogue food service operations lately, and we really want local food handlers to have the latest and most up-to-date information on food safety so residents can be confident in the safety of these non-traditional venues. By applying with the Health Department local, food vendors can have our staff’s expertise and guidance at their disposal.”
Washburn adds, “Offering this education to local event food vendors really is a win-win for everyone. Event Coordinators can ensure they are organizing a safe and approved event, food vendors can be confident in the food they prepare and serve, and local residents can rest assured that food purchased at local events is safe.”
Full details and forms are available at henrystarkhealth.com or via the Health Department’s social media.