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Environmental Health and Safety

Temporary Food Events

University Affiliated Organizations, Departments, and Groups

Environmental Health and Safety is responsible for reviewing and approving applications for temporary food events hosted by University affiliated organizations, departments, and groups. A temporary food event is defined as an event that operates at a fixed location for a period of time of not more than 14 consecutive days in conjunction with a single event or celebration. In order to facilitate good public health, EHS developed an application process that assists in the identification and reduction of risks associated with food service during temporary food events.

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  • Applications must be received by EHS at least 5 business days prior to the event
  • The applicant is ultimately responsible for completing the application and following
  • If EHS identifies any imminent threats to public health, the party distributing the food will discontinue operation until all violations or concerns have been addressed and corrected
  • Food events at ISU are subject to any applicable University policies and procedures

Outside Caterers and Food Service Providers

Outside caterers and food service providers who prepare and/or serve food on campus property shall complete the University Approved Alcohol and Food Vendor Certification form prior to providing food service operations on campus. Food vendor certification will be effective from the date of vendor approval to the expiration date on the vendor's Certificate of Insurance.

Sponsors for each event shall complete a web form application prior to each public food event in order to provide Environmental Health and Safety with the following information:

  • Name of the event or hosting department;
  • Location(s), date(s), and time(s) of food service;
  • List of food items being served;
  • McLean County Health Department Food Permit or Temporary Food Event Permit number;
  • Open flame usage and fire prevention measures.

Exceptions to Completing an Online Application and University Approved Alcohol and Food Vendor Certification Form.

Outside caterers and food service providers may serve/provide snacks, hors d'oeuvres, pizza, sandwiches, etc. for University group meetings/activities on campus (with the exception of the Bone Student Center, Event Management, Dining, and Hospitality (EMDH) venues, and any plated meal, formal buffet or reception) provided the meetings/activities are private and the food is not offered for sale/distribution to the campus community. Department staff may pick-up and carry-in food for private meetings/activities.

Food Trucks and Food Carts

Food trucks, food carts and other similar food vendors not owned and operated by EMDH are not allowed on campus, including parking areas. The University may make a limited exception with approval by EMDH.

Potlucks

Potlucks are excluded from Environmental Health and Safety oversight as long as the following conditions are met:

  • Food is offered without charge;
  • The event is not sponsored by a business establishment dealing in the sale of food items;
  • It is generally understood by all participants at the event that neither the food nor facilities have been inspected by a regulatory authority;
  • Food is not brought into the kitchen of a food service establishment. Bringing food items into the kitchen of a permitted food service establishment involves a risk of unintentional cross contamination.