Following reports of ice cream vans trading in Horsham Park, residents are being warned about the risks of traders operating without permission.
Unregulated vans may not have had food hygiene and other health safety inspections, as well possibly using vehicles lacking insurance and MOTs. This means they could pose a risk to those who purchase food and drinks from them.
Food businesses are required by law to be inspected as part of the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme. As such, legitimate sellers should display food hygiene sticker on their van. Consumers can search for a food hygiene rating online at: https://ratings.food.gov.uk/.
In addition, sellers wishing to operate an ice cream van, sell hot drinks, or similar from any council-owned carpark, park or open space across the District must apply for permission from the Council.
If a member of the public has spotted a trader they believe to be operating without permission, they are advised to report them to ehl@horsham.gov.uk including details of the vehicle registration and operating location.