SEATTLE – King County officials are stepping up efforts to address a growing health concern: an increasing number of unauthorized food vendors operating without permits or inspections. Public Health – Seattle & King County warns that these unregulated sellers pose potential risks to public safety.
In recent months, authorities have seen a surge in illicit food carts, particularly near busy entertainment venues, nightlife areas, and sporting events throughout Seattle. These vendors often lack essential safeguards like inspections and certified kitchens—putting consumers at risk for foodborne illnesses.
Chris McLendon, owner of the Paparepas food truck and restaurant, voiced his concerns. “If it’s not coming from an inspected commercial kitchen, you really don’t know what you’re getting,” he said. “I wouldn’t serve that food to my own family.”
Unlike traditional restaurants, food trucks in King County haven’t been required to display their health inspection grades—until now.
New Safety Measures in Place
To improve transparency and public trust, the health department is launching a new initiative that will require mobile vendors—including food trucks, bakeries, fish and meat sellers, and catering services—to visibly post their food safety ratings. These signs will be issued during each vendor’s first inspection of 2025.
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McLendon believes the new rules will boost consumer confidence and reward businesses that uphold high food safety standards. “I think these ratings will help people make informed choices and recognize who’s doing things the right way,” he said.
Customers agree. “Cleanliness is a top priority when I’m buying food on the go,” said Yesh Jain, a local food truck patron. “It would be reassuring to see those safety signs posted on every truck.”
A Widespread Issue
With over 750 mobile food vendors operating across King County, enforcing food safety remains a major task for public health officials. While legitimate businesses undergo regular inspections, unauthorized vendors continue to pop up—often avoiding oversight and posing public health risks.
Despite repeated crackdowns, these vendors often return, finding new locations to set up shop. The health department is encouraging licensed vendors to request temporary safety signs until their scheduled inspections.
Public Health hopes that this new transparency initiative will not only protect consumers but also give compliant vendors a competitive edge. For now, officials continue to urge the public to look for signs of licensing and cleanliness before purchasing food from mobile sellers.
For more updates on King County health and safety initiatives, residents can follow Public Health – Seattle & King County’s official website or download the FOX LOCAL app for real-time news and alerts
