Why Do Temporary Food Permits Matter?
Learn how public awareness helps support safe food events.
Fairs, festivals, and community fundraisers often fill the fall calendar. During these events, food often takes center stage and brings people together. However, behind the scenes, event sponsors, vendors, and food service employees are responsible for ensuring the safety of the food and those consuming it.
One tool that assists in protecting everyone involved is the Temporary Food Permit (TFP).
What Is a Temporary Food Permit?
A TFP is required when food or beverages are prepared and served to the public.
In Moultrie County, Illinois, the Moultrie County Health Department (MCHD) requires every business, community organization, or person who plans to provide food to the public to obtain a TFP before operating. This process allows the MCHD to ensure that all food vendors can adhere to required public health food safety standards.
Why Are Temporary Food Permits Important?
By requiring TFPs, local health departments can:
- Verify safe food handling practices.
- Ensure the entity’s ability to obtain, prepare, and serve food properly.
- Reinforce handwashing and sanitation standards.
- Promote the reputation and success of the event and the food service vendor.
How Can You Help?
As a community member, you also play a role in supporting safe food events. You can help ensure your own safety when consuming food served in public venues by:
- Looking for permitted vendors: Food booths should display a valid Temporary Food Permit.
- Noticing cleanliness: Staff should wear gloves or use utensils when handling food that is ready to eat, and keep food properly stored and covered when not serving.
- Asking questions: Don’t hesitate to ask vendors how food is kept hot or cold. Safe food temperatures are crucial.
Your awareness helps reinforce a culture of safety at public gatherings. The TFP posted at the vendor’s booth reflects their ability to uphold food safety standards and protect the public’s health.
How the TFP Process Works in Moultrie County
To receive a Temporary Food Permit in Moultrie County, those sponsoring food events and food vendors must:
- Download the TFP application from the MCHD's website. If you need a permit mailed to you, please contact the MCHD.
- Fill in your event information.
- Submit the completed application by mail or in person to the MCHD.
- Applications should be received no later than seven (7) days before the event.
- The MCHD Environmental Health staff reviews applications. Permits are issued as appropriate for specific dates and events.
If you have questions concerning the temporary food permit process or need assistance completing the application, we invite you to contact the MCHD at (217) 728-4114. We are happy to assist you in making your event safe and successful.