County publicly warns against street vendors after reports of illnesses

After receiving complaints from consumers who have become ill, the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department in Phoenix, Arizona, has initiated legal action against food vendors operating without proper permits.

In recent weeks, the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department has received reports of 17 individuals suffering from diarrhea and vomiting after eating from a specific group of unlicensed street vendors, according to a statement from the department.

The department has determined that direct public outreach is necessary to reduce the risk of foodborne illness to the public.

The vendors in question are usually located near sidewalks and parking lots where they promote the sale of ‘tacos al pastor’. The ‘tacos al pastor’ meat is placed on a vertical rotisserie, a so-called ‘tropo’ or spinning top. The meat is shaved directly from the rotisserie spit into the taco. If the trompo is set up outdoors with temporary equipment such as pop-up tents and folding tables, this is likely not allowed and could cause illness.

“It is important to note that the businesses involved in these illness reports should not be confused with the vast majority of street food vendors, including taco stands, that employ safe food practices,” the department said.

The department said it believes purchasing food from licensed retailers is the safest practice. Permits issued by the department require suppliers to follow basic food safety practices, such as washing hands, maintaining proper food temperatures and obtaining food from approved sources, which reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Below you will find a chart showing the MCESD permit and images of the type of surgery associated with the complaints and illness reports.

Consumers who have concerns about a food operation or who have become ill from eating at a food business or street vendor are encouraged to contact the department at 602-506-6616 or visit Maricopa.gov/Enviro to submit your complaint electronically.

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