The Arizona Restaurant Association has announced that the state's governor has allowed restaurants to sell raw food, just like a grocery store. Here is the report from the association:
Today, Governor Ducey issued an Executive Order clarifying that restaurants may repackage and sell raw food items and other products directly to the public - similar to a grocery store. The Arizona Restaurant Association thanks Governor Ducey for making this important clarification that allows restaurants to access new revenue streams and provides options to consumers.
In a press release Governor Ducey said "Even with dine-in and carry-out options still available to patrons, many Arizona restaurants are struggling due to COVID-19. Today’s Executive Order provides flexibility for restaurant owners to safely sell prepared and bulk foods or supplies they have on hand and can’t use right now. We are proud to support Arizona restaurants with this reform.”
The Executive Orders state that:
- Restaurants currently licensed or permitted to serve prepared food may sell grocery items including, but not limited to, paper goods, cleaning supplies, prepared food in bulk, meat and vegetables whether or not those items are normally packaged for resale, provided the following:
- Food sold must be wholesome and unadulterated.
- Open ready-to-eat foods must be within the date marking requirements to be sold.
- Products requiring refrigeration must remain under temperature control (41-degrees or less) until ready for pick up or delivery.
- Customers should be instructed to get food home quickly and placed under refrigeration.
- Bulk household goods should be sold in their original containers.
- Raw meats should be separated from other foods, especially produce and other ready-to-eat food items to prevent cross contamination.
- Businesses shall assess their customer traffic flows to ensure a takeout or curbside business model will maintain the Governor's social distancing requirements
The order also contains other provisions such as waiving the enforcement of Weights and Measures.