Are food carts as safe as restaurants?

Food carts have become a very popular part of the food scene in many cities. Are food carts as safe to eat at as restaurants?

One study found that 18% of food carts earned lower than A grades on their health inspection, compared to 5% of brick-and-mortar restaurants. Food trucks scored even worse, with 27% earning less than A grades.

Working in a food cart or truck can be challenging, as they often lack the equipment of a full-sized restaurant. The food preparation area and refrigerators are smaller, which can lead to difficulties.

One report stated that inspectors reviewed only about 40% of food carts and trucks due to staffing difficulties and trouble locating the businesses.

Outbreaks from food carts and trucks in recent years have included E. coli and hepatitis A outbreaks.