The event offered hands-on assistance, workshops in English and Spanish, application support and information on fee subsidies for the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations and Compact Mobile Food Operation programs.
Los Angeles County officials held a resource fair Thursday at Ted Watkins Park to help residents start or expand small food businesses through home kitchen and mobile vending programs.
The event, held as part of National Public Health Week, offered hands-on assistance, workshops in English and Spanish, application support and information on fee subsidies for the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations and Compact Mobile Food Operation programs.
The MEHKO program, approved by the Board of Supervisors in 2024, allows residents to legally prepare and sell food from their home kitchens. Officials say it aims to reduce regulatory barriers while ensuring safe food handling practices.
“In the Second District, we know that economic opportunity and public health go hand in hand,” said Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell. “Through our home kitchen and mobile vending programs, residents can now legally and safely turn their culinary skills into a real business.”
Barbara Ferrer, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, said the programs help remove barriers for aspiring food entrepreneurs while protecting public health.
“Too often, individuals with the drive to build a business face barriers that limit their ability to be part of the local business community in a safe and compliant way,” Ferrer said.
The county has reportedly issued 319 MEHKO permits after receiving more than 500 applications. Officials say bringing operators into a regulated system helps reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
