Officials call for support for licensed food trucks to improve public health in Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — Multnomah County is urging Portland residents to purchase food only from licensed food vendors and restaurants.

The county says that since last summer, there has been a rise in unlicensed “red-puss stands” selling hot dogs near venues and bars in the city area. Officials say these unlicensed businesses lack proper food handling equipment, handwashing facilities, clean water and refrigeration, leaving people more likely to contract foodborne illness.

They also pose a fire hazard because of their fuel sources. Authorities are also urging Portland residents to use licensed food stalls to promote reputable restaurants and businesses in the city.

“We’re asking people to support their local licensed food vendors this weekend,” said Jeff Martin, interim director of environmental health. “This is how we protect our thriving food truck industry and Portland’s public health. Our focus is on helping small businesses succeed.”

The health department said four cans were shut down by players with out-of-state licenses who parked their concession stands and carts near Portland venues. Additionally, six carts were labeled as unlicensed concession stands, but those concession stands covered over the health department sticker to deceive customers and continue to sell food.

Officials say their first approach to the illegal food stall problem was to contact the unlicensed food stalls and inform them that they need certain certificates and permits to operate their businesses legally and explain to them how to obtain them. The county has also deployed inspectors who speak the vendors’ primary languages.

Health authorities in Washington and California also reported nearly identical problems with similar unlicensed hot dog outlets.

According to Multnomah County, licensed mobile food trucks always display their health permit on their business sign so it is visible to the public. If you don’t see one, the city encourages you to ask the vendor.

Information on how to obtain a food license can be found here.