Liability Insurance for Mobile Food: What You Need to Cover

This article focuses only on liability—not auto, property, or workers comp. For a full picture of coverage, see our Food Truck Insurance Guide and Food Truck Insurance Cost. For mobile food, two types matter most: general liability and product liability.

General Liability

General liability covers third-party bodily injury and property damage that arise from your business operations—for example, a customer who slips near your truck or is hurt by a hot surface. It does not cover your vehicle (that’s auto) or your equipment (that’s property). Many venues and events require a minimum limit (e.g. $1M per occurrence / $2M aggregate). Food trucks often pay more than stationary restaurants because of the mobility and varied locations; your agent can explain how your radius and revenue affect the quote.

Product Liability

Product liability covers claims that your food caused illness or injury. It may be included in your general liability policy or sold as an endorsement. Given the nature of food service, this coverage is critical. Document your food safety and HACCP practices; insurers and defendants will look at whether you followed safe handling and temperature controls.

Choosing Limits

Start with at least $1M/$2M if your clients or venues require it; some operations carry higher limits. Compare quotes from insurers that specialize in food or mobile food. Combine liability with the rest of your insurance program so you have no gaps. For cost planning, use our insurance cost article.

Claim Scenarios: What Gets Covered

Understanding how liability responds to real situations helps you choose limits and document your operations. Here are common scenarios and which coverage applies.

Checklist: Compliance and Insurance

Stay protected and meet venue requirements by keeping these in order.

• General liability — At least $1M/$2M; add product liability if not included. Document your food safety and HACCP practices; insurers and defendants will look at whether you followed safe handling.
• Certificate of insurance — Have a current certificate ready for venues and events. Add additional insureds when required.
• Permits and training — Keep food service permits current; maintain records of food safety training. Insurers may ask for these at renewal.