Mobile Catering Certificates

Mobile catering is an exciting and flexible way to deliver food services, but it comes with responsibilities to ensure safety, compliance, and customer trust. One of the critical aspects of running a mobile catering business is obtaining the appropriate certificates and licenses. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Food Hygiene Certificate

• Requirement: Anyone handling food must have a basic understanding of food safety. A Food Hygiene Certificate demonstrates that you and your staff are trained in proper food handling, preparation, and storage to prevent foodborne illnesses.
• Types: Typically, Level 2 Food Hygiene is required for food handlers, while higher levels may be needed for supervisors and managers.
• Validity: These certificates usually last for 3-5 years before needing renewal.
  
  

2. Health and Safety Certificate

• Purpose: Ensures that the mobile catering unit complies with health and safety regulations, protecting both staff and customers.
• Content: Covers risk assessments, safe equipment usage, fire safety, and emergency procedures.
• Inspection: Local authorities may carry out inspections to ensure compliance.
  
  

3. Gas Safety Certificate

• Relevance: If your mobile catering unit uses gas-powered equipment, a Gas Safety Certificate is essential. At CKB our certified Gas Safe engineers must inspect and approve the equipment to ensure it’s safe for use.
• Frequency: Inspections should be carried out annually.
  
  

4. Public Liability Insurance

• Necessity: While not technically a certificate, Public Liability Insurance is vital for any mobile catering business. It covers you in case of accidents, injuries, or damages that could occur during service.
• Benefits: Provides peace of mind and is often required for participation in public events or markets.
  
  

5. Street Trading License

• Requirement: To legally operate a mobile catering unit on public roads or spaces, you need a Street Trading License issued by the local council. Each council may have its own regulations, so it’s important to check with your local authority.
• Application: The process typically involves a fee and documentation, such as proof of insurance and a business plan.
  
  

6. Food Business Registration

• Legal Obligation: All mobile catering businesses must register with the local environmental health department at least 28 days before starting operations. This allows health inspectors to check that food hygiene standards are met.
• Cost: Registration is free and needs to be updated if you change your business details.
  
  

7. HACCP Plan

• Overview: The Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plan outlines how you identify and manage food safety hazards. It’s a structured approach to ensure that food is prepared safely.
• Requirement: A HACCP plan may be required during inspections or when applying for food safety certifications.