Food Truck Requirements in New Jersey

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of a Truck in New Jersey?

Yes, you can sell food and beverage out of a truck in New Jersey. However, you must obtain licensure from the New Jersey Department of Health in order to do so. The type of license and exact requirements depend on the type of food or beverage you plan to sell.

What is the Food Truck Law in New Jersey?

The Food Truck Law in New Jersey requires all food trucks operating within the state to obtain an operating license from the NJ Department of Health. The license must be renewed every year and the business must be registered with the state. In addition, any food truck operating in New Jersey must adhere to all local food safety and health regulations, as well as any laws and regulations applicable to their particular business.

What is Required on a Food Label for Food Truck Food in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, food truck owners must comply with the food labeling requirements in the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services regulations. This includes the following requirements:

1. Nutritional Information: The label must include the total number of calories, fat (in grams), saturated fat (in grams), trans fat (in grams), cholesterol (in milligrams), sodium (in milligrams), carbohydrates (in grams), fiber (in grams), sugar (in grams), and protein (in grams). This information must be listed near the top of the label and must be prominently displayed.

2. Allergen Information: The label must identify any allergens or potential allergens contained in the product. This includes any ingredients that contain wheat, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts or soybeans.

3. Ingredient List: The label must include a full list of ingredients in descending order of predominance by weight. This means that the heaviest ingredient must be listed first followed by the next heaviest and so on.

4. Serving Size: The label must state the size of a single serving as well as the total number of servings in the container.

5. Net Weight: The label must list the net weight of the entire container in both ounces and/or grams.

Are Foods Sold out of a Food Truck Taxable in New Jersey?

Yes, in most cases, food sold from a food truck in New Jersey is taxable. According to the New Jersey Division of Taxation, food sales are generally subject to the state’s 6.625% sales tax rate. Exceptions may apply for certain types of food items and for sales to certain types of customers.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, food trucks are regulated by the health departments of each county. Depending on where the food truck will be located in the state, different permits and licenses may be required. Generally, food trucks are required to have a license from the county health department, a vendor’s license from the state, and permission to operate from the local municipality. All other necessary permits and licenses will vary depending on what type of food is being served and where it is being served.

Do You Need a Vehicle Inspection for Food Trucks in New Jersey?

Yes, New Jersey requires all food trucks to have a valid inspection certificate issued by a certified vehicle inspector. The inspection must include an examination of all vehicle components such as brakes, lights, tires, exhaust, and steering. The inspection must also include a verification of the vehicle’s weight and load capacity.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Food out of a Food Truck in New Jersey?

Yes, you will need to establish a business entity to sell food out of a food truck in New Jersey. This can include LLCs, corporations, partnerships, sole proprietorships, and other business entities. You will also need to register your business with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. Additionally, you will need to obtain any necessary permits and licenses to operate your food truck.

Can Food Trucks Serve Alcohol in New Jersey?

No, food trucks are not allowed to serve alcohol in New Jersey.

Do I Need a Fire Suppression System in My Food Truck in ?New Jersey?

Yes, a fire suppression system is required for all mobile food trucks in the state of New Jersey. All mobile food trucks must be equipped with a fire suppression system that meets the requirements of the New Jersey Fire Safety Commission. Additionally, all food truck operators must have a valid permit from the local health department to operate the food truck.

Does a Food Truck Need a Food Handlers License in New Jersey?

Yes, a food truck in New Jersey must have a valid Food Handlers License.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in New Jersey?

Food safety certification in New Jersey is administered by the Department of Health and Senior Services. The cost for obtaining a food safety certificate in New Jersey is $50. This fee covers the cost of the food safety course and the examination at the end of the course.

How Much does it Cost to Start a Food Truck in New Jersey?

The cost to start a food truck in New Jersey varies greatly depending on the size and type of food truck. The cost can range anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000. The bigger and more elaborate the truck, the more it will cost. Additionally, you will need to account for licensing and permit fees, insurance costs, and fuel expenses.

Who Regulates Food Safety in New Jersey?

The New Jersey Department of Agriculture is responsible for regulating food safety in the state of New Jersey. The agency is responsible for inspecting food establishments, enforcing federal and state food safety regulations, and educating the public on food safety.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in New Jersey?

Food Handler cards (or certificates) in the state of New Jersey are valid for 3 years from the date of issuance.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, the penalties for selling food without a permit depend on the type of food being sold and the municipality in which it is being sold. Generally speaking, selling food without a permit in New Jersey can result in fines, criminal charges, or both. Additionally, depending on the amount of food sold without a permit, a person or business may be subject to civil penalties, including an injunction requiring them to cease unlawful operations and reimburse the municipality for any costs incurred in investigating the violations.