Mobile food vending is an awesome way to connect with various people while serving delicious food. However, you must properly prepare for this type of food service. If you’re interested, read our tips for becoming a food vendor at carnivals and fairs for beneficial advice!

Create a Menu

Creating an appetizing menu is an important aspect of becoming a food vendor at carnivals and fairs. Generally, people want something simple yet delicious to eat, and you can create a menu that uses minimal food items for different recipes. For example, you can incorporate refried beans in burritos and tacos. In addition, you can use alcohol flavoring essence to achieve a specific flavor in multiple recipes!

Make an Inventory List

After creating a menu, it’s essential to make an inventory list of all the food and materials you need. And when purchasing material, it’s always best to have more items than less. However, you can estimate the number of items you need by asking festival organizers about the expected number of attendees. In addition, when making your inventory list, don’t forget to add disposable utensils and serving containers.

Obtain Proper Permits and Licenses

You will need a vendor’s license or a food handler’s permit to sell food at carnivals and fairs. If you’re a restaurant participating in an event, you can obtain a temporary license that allows vending privileges for 24 to 48 hours. However, if you’re starting a food vending business and plan to operate during several events, you must purchase state-specific permits and licenses.

Invest in Food Preparation Equipment

Food preparation equipment is vital to vending because it keeps food safe to consume. Sufficient storage, like refrigeration units, thermal bags, and serving containers, must meet your state’s health department standards to comply with sanitation guidelines. In addition, preparation equipment helps you avoid contamination that may damage or degrade food.

Offer Mobile Pay

One of the best tips for becoming a food vendor at carnivals and fairs is to offer mobile payments. Apps like Venmo, Zelle, and Apple Pay allow consumers to purchase items without carrying cards or cash. And during carnivals and fairs, people may shy away from typical payment methods to avoid theft. Therefore, mobile pay is a great alternative to allow transactions!

If you’re a mobile food vendor interested in enhancing the taste of your recipes, you should browse through Get Suckered’s selection of products. Our food flavoring concentrates add the “wow” factor to any recipe. We’re sure you will find something you love!