The City of Seagoville Health Department is urging residents to stop buying meals from private homes after receiving what it described as numerous complaints of illness linked to food purchased from unlicensed sellers.
In a public alert posted to its official Facebook page, the department said private residences are not permitted to sell temperature controlled foods and warned that buying or selling meals from neighbors is done at the buyer’s own risk.
“UNLICENSED & UNINSPECTED: Private homes are NOT permitted to sell temperature controlled foods,” the City of Seagoville Health Department said in the post.
According to the department, the following items are not allowed to be sold from private homes:
- Meats, poultry and seafood
- Dishes containing dairy or eggs
- Any items requiring ice or temperature control, including hot foods and coffee
The department stated plainly that buying from private residences is illegal, and it is asking residents to report any suspected illegal food sales directly to the Health Department.
Officials clarified that cottage foods, such as jams and baked goods prepared in home kitchens, remain allowed under current rules. The restriction applies specifically to temperature sensitive and perishable items that require proper licensing, inspection and food safety handling to prevent contamination.
“Stay Safe, Report Illegal Sales!” the department wrote, encouraging residents to call with any concerns.
Residents who suspect illegal food sales or who have experienced illness after purchasing food from an unlicensed private seller are asked to contact the City of Seagoville Health Department at 469-319-5025.
The department’s message comes as a reminder that food safety regulations exist to protect the public from foodborne illness, and that only licensed, inspected vendors are authorized to sell temperature controlled meals within the city.
This article is based on information provided by the City of Seagoville Health Department. Shop in Seagoville will continue to share updates from local officials as they become available.
