Temporary Food Service Requirements

All temporary food service events, including bake sales and similar activities, require a valid Temporary Food Permit issued by the MU Sanitarian at Environmental Health & Safety.

To ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, please observe the following requirements:

• Event Schedule
  • Provide the exact date and times of your event.
  • Notify the MU Sanitarian promptly if there are any changes to the schedule.
• Restricted Foods
  • No potentially hazardous foods may be served without prior approval from the Sanitarian.
• Prohibited Preparations
  • Home-canned foods are not allowed.
  • Meals prepared in home kitchens may not be served or sold at public events.
• Packaging Requirements
  • All food items must be individually wrapped prior to sale.
  • The quantity wrapped is the quantity that must be sold (e.g., one cookie per wrap = one cookie per sale).
  • Use clear stretch wrap when possible.
  • Do not touch unwrapped food with bare hands. Once food is wrapped, it may be handled without gloves.
• Fruits and Vegetables
  • Must be sold whole—no cutting or preparing on-site.
• Samples
  • Samples may only be provided with specific permission from the MU Sanitarian.

These requirements are designed to protect public health and minimize liability risks for your group. If you have questions or unique circumstances, please contact the MU Sanitarian at Environmental Health & Safety (573) 882-7018 or email muehssanitarian@missouri.edu.