The COVID-19 pandemic has shut the doors of hundreds of restaurants in 2020. In fact, the National Restaurant Association predicts that the coronavirus will cost the industry $240 billion this year. In the midst of these losses, there is good news, both for foodies and for restaurants ready to adapt. The food truck industry is still on a roll, thanks to the ways food trucks are safer than restaurants from the coronavirus:
Food Trucks are Safe during COVID-19
1. Food Trucks Face Stricter Health Standards
Health departments may set higher standards for food trucks than traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants. For example, food truck owners in Los Angeles cannot apply for permits online; they must apply in person. Mobile food businesses receive two inspections: one for their vehicle and one for their commissary. That means two stamps of approval. These extra steps build consumer confidence in the safety of what they’re eating.
2. Food Trucks Are Self-Contained
Food trucks protect both servers and diners by design. With only one or two service windows, a food truck minimizes the risk of airborne droplets passing between server and diner.
3. Food Trucks Have Smaller Staffs
There are rarely too many cooks in a food truck kitchen. With staffing averaging from 1 to 3 people, it is much easier for food truck owners to check the health of their employees. There’s also less opportunity for infection from a smaller staff.
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4. Food Trucks Provide Transparency of Service
The small size of food trucks gives diners a clear view of the people preparing their food. Mask wearing and sanitary procedures are on public view. This level of transparency is great for reducing fears and building confidence.
5. Food Trucks Keep You #SaferOutside
While some restaurants have reopened outdoor dining, food trucks tend to serve in open, outdoor areas. That provides freedom of movement and choice in spacing. Diners won’t be stuck in a waiting area or back-to-back with anyone who’s supposed to be six feet away. They’ll be able to walk up, get a meal, and retire to the bench or picnic blanket of their choosing.
6. Food Truck Transparency on Social Media
Social media is a key part of food truck culture. Those that have done well during the pandemic have made the most of this tool. As small businesses, food trucks are more quickly affected by COVID-related changes. The best ones update their social media like Facebook and Instagram regularly. Diners can review a truck’s status and see photos of past services before placing an order.
7. Order Ahead from a Food Truck
Like restaurants, adaptable trucks have taken advantage of order ahead apps and websites like Uber Eats, Doordash, Grubhub, and Postmates. Foodies can pick up their meal and enjoy it wherever they please, with whomever they choose.
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Food trucks are just as safe now as they were before the COVID 19 pandemic for both customers and people looking to start a food truck business. Are you ready to start a food truck business? Firefly is your one-stop shop to manufacture health department permitted food trucks and food trailers. Contact Firefly today at (323) 524-0078 for a free quote on your custom food truck or food trailer.
