Kane County Health Department: Safeguarding Food at Seasonal Events

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As summer brings festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor celebrations, the Kane County Health Department's Environmental Health Division plays a vital role in protecting public health, especially when it comes to food safety.

This division manages a wide range of environmental health concerns across Kane County, including food service inspections, lead poisoning prevention, noncommunity water well testing, vector control (like mosquitoes and ticks), and water well and private sewage disposal system inspections.

Temporary food service operations, such as food booths and mobile vendors at fairs, festivals and events are a major focus during the warmer months. These setups can face unique challenges like limited refrigeration, poor weather conditions, or lack of water and power, all of which raise the risk of foodborne illness.

Health inspectors are on call 24/7 and begin working with vendors ahead of each event. They verify that food is sourced from approved kitchens, stored safely, cooked at the right temperatures, and served using safe handling practices. Proper hygiene, clean equipment, and correct waste disposal are also reviewed. To ensure smooth inspections, event organizers are urged to submit applications and vendor lists well in advance of the event. 

“We support our businesses and strive to make food inspections manageable," said Michael Isaacson, Executive Director of the Health Department. “Our goal is to help them succeed while keeping the public safe."

Have a food safety concern?
visit www.kanehealth.com 
Submit an online complaint: Environmental Health Complaint Form or call 630-444-3040