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About IDPH

IDPH Guidelines for Potlucks

Download IDPH Guidelines for Potlucks Flyer

“Potluck Event” Means:

  • People are gathered to share food at the event
  • There is NO compensation provided to people for bringing food to the event
  • The event is NOT conducted for commercial purposes
  • It is generally understood by the participants at the event that the food/facilities have NOT been inspected by the local health department
  • The event is NOT held on public property

If the “potluck event” is sponsored by a group of individuals or a charitable/non-profit/religious organization:

  • It is NOT regulated by the local health department
  • NO fees are allowed to be charged for the event
  • A licensed food establishment may NOT sponsor the event
  • The organization CANNOT use the licensed food establishment kitchen for any purposes

For more information, contact your local health department or the IDPH Food Program at dph.food@illinois.gov.