Being a street food vendor provides many opportunities says report

Street food has made a “lasting impact” over the last ten years on the eating habits of diners in the UK, providing a welcome combination of business and work opportunities and the ability to defend those all important margins, says a recent report on the BQ Live website.

The article by Ashleigh Smith is based on the results of a survey by Catering.com which provides a number of reasons for this peak in a sector that has expanded even more rapidly that the rest of the fast food industry across the UK.

Importantly, it’s not low prices that seems to be attracting diners says Smith, who states that street food is perceived to “represent little in terms of value for their money”. Indeed, more than a third of those surveyed reckon that higher prices than “traditional dining” options are usually the case.

The “authenticity of the cuisine” and “authentic experiences” are deemed to be highly important factors when it come to the choice of street food over other options.

The urban phenomenon

London of course is still perceived as the street dining capital of the UK says the report: interestingly, the average price of such a meal is reckoned to be £7.50, around half as expensive as other named cities. In London alone around 1.1 million people attend street food markets at least once a week.

Street success – how street food vendors are impacting UK consumers »

Why hand washing facilities are vital to any street food business

If you are thinking of venturing out with a street food business, there are five reasons why you need a hand wash unit according to NCASS – the Nationwide Caterers’ Association.

“A separate hand washing facility must be provided. It must have hot and cold (or appropriately mixed running water). Alcohol gels are not acceptable on their own but can be used in addition to a hand washing system.”

Maintaining a five star food hygiene rating in the middle of a field at an agricultural show could present a problem for many mobile caterers. But Mrs Patels are able to concentrate on producing delicious food whilst maintaining good levels of hand hygiene – thanks to their TEAL Washstand portable hand washing unit.

Effective, highly portable hand wash units for caterers

It is so important to have effective hand washing facilities available at the point of need.

TEAL’s portable sinks are the perfect solution for the food-related and catering industries. The comprehensive range meets the most exacting requirements of any Environmental Health Officer and includes:-

• Mains powered units: The Super Stallette, BigSynk, Hygienius, TEALwash, Variant and Handeman Xtra for mains supply.
• Pre-heated hot water units: The WashStand and the Handeman Xtra Portable.

How to choose the correct mobile sink for you »

The Teal WashStand – wheel it to where you want it!