Buying a used food truck in El Paso, Texas, is one of the most popular routes for entrepreneurs and restaurant owners who want their own food business on wheels. Before buying a unit, though, you need to account for current health standards. Failing to meet them can bring fines, penalties and even the closure of your business.
To know whether a used food truck kitchen meets El Paso, Texas health standards, you need to inspect the materials, the plumbing system and the ventilation. Check that the surfaces are food-grade stainless steel. Verify that there are three wash sinks and a separate handwashing sink. Make sure there are refrigerators that hold safe temperatures, and ask for the previous health permits and technical drawings.
Inspecting kitchen materials and finishes
When you buy a used food truck, you have to verify that the kitchen walls, ceilings and floors are smooth, waterproof and easy to clean. The standard material health authorities require is stainless steel in the areas of direct contact with food.
Avoid buying trucks with exposed wood cladding or porous materials. Those surfaces collect grease, moisture and bacteria very easily. Make sure the joints and corners between walls and floors are properly sealed to keep pests out.
Other important points to keep in mind are the following:
Checking the plumbing and drainage system
One critical point is having enough potable water for the workday, since code requires a clean water tank and a wastewater tank with greater capacity. The wash area has to include a three-compartment sink for washing, rinsing and sanitizing utensils.
A separate handwashing sinks for staff, with hot water, liquid soap and disposable towels, is also required. Check that the pipes show no leaks or bad odors, and make sure the water pumps work at the right pressure.
Refrigeration control and food storage
The food truck builders in Texas know the cold chain is essential to keep supplies safe. That is why refrigeration equipment has to hold perishable food below four degrees Celsius.
Verify that each cooling unit has a visible, working thermometer, and inspect the door gaskets to confirm they seal tight without losing temperature. Freezers should run at minus eighteen degrees Celsius or lower. Ask the seller to turn the equipment on before your visit so you can check how it really performs.
Ventilation, exhaust and grease handling
The air exhaust system keeps heat, smoke and greasy vapors from building up in the kitchen, so the stainless steel hood has to cover the cooking area completely. Make sure the grease filters come off and are easy to clean, since the exhaust fan has to push air outside without affecting the customer service area.
Check that a grease trap is installed in the drainage system. This device keeps oily waste from contaminating the wastewater tank or the public drain.
Reviewing the vehicle certification and history
Before you think about the cost for a food truck, ask the owner for the health permits previously issued by local authorities. Those documents confirm the unit already passed health inspections in the past.
You can also request the design drawings for the kitchen installed in the vehicle and check whether the current equipment matches the layout inspectors approved. Ask whether the vehicle has a record of regular equipment maintenance. A complete history will give you more confidence about the hygiene and upkeep of the unit.
Universal Food Trailer: new and used units of the highest quality
When you buy a used food truck in El Paso, Texas, it is crucial to know whether the unit meets health code, or the investment may not pay off. At Universal Food Trailer we are established manufacturers of mobile food units and we offer used food trucks adapted to current regulations. Our experts will give you the information you need to clear up any doubt.
Would you like a quote or more information about us? Contact us by email at info@universalfoodtrailer.com or by phone at (830) 955 8655. We will reply right away with the information you request.
Frequently asked questions
Can the health permit of a used food truck be transferred to the new owner?
No, health permits do not transfer automatically from one owner to another. You have to file for a new license in your name and present the vehicle for a new inspection.
What kind of floor does a food truck need to meet health standards?
The floor has to be non-slip, waterproof, washable and free of cracks. Non-skid aluminum or heavy-duty industrial vinyl coverings are recommended.
Is hot water mandatory inside a food truck?
Yes, code requires a working water heater in the vehicle. Hot water is essential for proper handwashing and sanitizing utensils.
Can I use portable coolers instead of commercial refrigerators?
No, health authorities require commercial refrigerators with visible temperature control. Portable coolers do not guarantee constant, safe cooling for food.
How much distance should there be between the cooking area and the handwashing sink?
There has to be adequate separation or a protective steel barrier. That keeps water splashes from contaminating the food being cooked.
