The Mecklenburg County Health Department reminds residents that food sold by the roadside often is done illegally and may be potentially unhealthy.

The Health Department permits and inspects all prepared foods sold in the county including prepared foods sold as part of a charity or church fundraiser. If you're having a fundraiser where prepared (cooked) food will be sold, call the Health Department to get it pertmitted, or if you see prepared food for sale by the side of the road, please call the Health Department to report it at 704-336-5100.

Don't be fooled into buying food from unpermitted, roadside vendors sold under the illusion of the backyard barbecue. It could be illegal and it could be unhealthy.