Tweed Shire Council is reminding residents who prepare and sell food from their homes that they need to let Council know about their businesses, following a steady rise in 'dark kitchens' over the years.
Dark kitchens operate 'out of sight' from customers and authorities, often from homes or industrial premises, and rely on social media and delivery apps for trade.
Without an identified physical premises, dark kitchens can be outside the reach of regulatory oversight – including inspections from food safety officers.
Council's Environmental Health Program Leader, Marcela Lopez, said Council's Environmental Health Officers are available to provide support and guidance to help businesses meet safety standards.
"We recognise the excitement of operating and selling food in the Tweed," Ms Lopez said.
"However, it's important to ensure that food safety and regulatory standards are applied equally to businesses operating from home and those from physical restaurants. In today's digital economy, where food can be ordered online through websites or apps, these businesses are still selling food and must meet to the same safety standards as brick-and-mortar restaurants.
"There is a possibility these businesses are not handling food safely, which could make people sick. The rules around the production and selling of food are strict for a reason. Food poisoning can be deadly. Consumers have the right to eat safe food prepared in a clean environment."
Ms Marcela Lopez said notifying enforcement agencies before handling food for sale was a requirement under state law.
"No matter how big or small, or if a business is home-based, online-only, or even temporary, if you're selling food to consumers, you need to let Council know."
Local councils oversee retail food businesses in NSW, while those that on-sell to other businesses need to notify the NSW Food Authority.
