Stay Safe: Central District Health Issues Alert on Unlicensed Food Vendors in Treasure Valley

Boise, ID – Central District Health (CDH) is warning Treasure Valley residents about the dangers of buying food from unlicensed vendors on social media. Recently, there have been several complaints of food poisoning linked to these vendors, who often operate out of their homes.

Natasha Ferney, the Environmental Health Program Manager, highlighted that buying from these unregulated vendors poses serious health risks. “One of the biggest concerns is the chance of foodborne illnesses,” she said. These vendors might not maintain sanitary kitchens or know how to properly store food, increasing the risk of bacteria growth.

Ferney explained that certain foods need careful handling to stay safe, known as temperature-controlled for safety (TCS) foods. This category includes items like dairy, eggs, meats, cooked rice, beans, pasta, and cut fruits and veggies. If these foods aren’t stored at the right temperature, they can make you sick.

The state of Idaho allows some home-based vendors, under the Cottage Food rule, to sell non-TCS foods without a license. However, the rise in underground restaurants that sell TCS foods without proper permits is concerning. These vendors are likely operating illegally, putting consumers at risk.

CDH’s environmental health specialists play a vital role in ensuring public safety. They conduct thorough inspections of food service operations and provide training for food business owners and their staff. “We start our inspections before a business even opens and continue throughout its operation,” Ferney said. This ensures that businesses understand health regulations and can prevent foodborne illnesses.

Ferney emphasized that the main goal of CDH’s food safety program is to protect the community. “We want to educate people to prevent illness,” she said. This initiative not only helps keep consumers safe but also supports local businesses in their efforts to comply with health standards.

If you’re looking to start a food service business, or if you have questions about safe food practices, CDH offers helpful resources online. You can find forms for permits, report food poisoning, and check inspection records for local food establishments.