Resolution Year 2002
Resolution Number 6:
Community Support Programs for Donation of Prepared Foods
Whereas, Numerous community outreach programs routinely use prepared food donations from private citizens to supplement commercially organized food service operations including soup kitchens, shelter services, street feeding, and organized special occasion meal programs, and
Whereas, Many food regulatory jurisdictions require that all foods supplied to the public come from approved sources, whether the food items are for sale or free of charge, and
Whereas, Many food regulatory jurisdictions have the ability to determine approval status of food supplies and food sources, and
Whereas, Many food regulatory agencies can offer guidance on safe food handling practices even when the community-based food service programs are not part of their direct regulatory charge, and
Whereas, Federal requirements for food used by community-based food service programs apply whether the food handling activity is directly regulated, and
Whereas, Individuals receiving food must be assured that the food supplied from non-commercial sources is prepared and handled in a safe manner, and
Whereas, Many of the individuals preparing food within their own homes for these community-based food service programs are not part of the normally regulated food service community, and
Whereas, Many of the individuals consuming donated prepared foods may be at a greater risk for acquiring foodborne diseases, and
Whereas, Foodborne disease outbreak investigations require inquiries into the source of food ingredients, food preparation methods, food handling details that are not possible to evaluate under the current donated food system, therefore be it
Resolved, That AFDO identify on its website guidelines for use by organizations involved in community-based food service programs using donated prepared foods.
Board Recommendation: Approved with friendly amendment by the President of CASA.
