Cooks Terms of Service
Last updated: March 2026
These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern the relationship between Eat HomePlates ("Platform," "we," "us") and the home cooks ("Cook," "you") who list and sell food through our marketplace. By creating an account and listing food on Eat HomePlates, you agree to these Terms in their entirety.
1. Permit Maintenance
All cooks must upload a valid, active MEHKO permit or Class A Cottage Food license to the Eat HomePlates platform before listing any food items. If a permit expires, the cook's shop will be automatically suspended until a renewed permit is uploaded and verified. It is the cook's sole responsibility to maintain valid and current permits at all times.
2. Daily & Weekly Limits
California cooks agree not to exceed 30 meals per day or 90 meals per week, as mandated by California Health and Safety Code. Utah cooks agree to comply with their respective state limits as defined by the Utah Home Kitchen Act and their local health department. Violation of these limits may result in immediate suspension from the platform.
3. Delivery Compliance
Cooks acknowledge that third-party delivery services (including but not limited to UberEats, DoorDash, Grubhub, and Postmates) are strictly prohibited by law for MEHKO operations in both California and Utah. All food must be delivered personally by the cook or by a member of the cook's household. Use of unauthorized delivery services is a violation of state law and these Terms of Service.
4. Liability Release
Eat HomePlates operates as a marketplace platform that connects home cooks with consumers. Eat HomePlates is not a food manufacturer, distributor, or kitchen operator. Cooks are independently responsible for: • Food safety and proper preparation techniques • Accurate allergen labeling on all items • Compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal health regulations • Collection and remittance of applicable sales taxes • Maintaining appropriate insurance coverage Eat HomePlates shall not be held liable for any foodborne illness, allergic reaction, or other health issue arising from the consumption of food prepared by cooks on the platform.
5. Right to Audit
Eat HomePlates reserves the right to request proof of recent kitchen inspections, food safety manager certificates, permit renewals, or any other compliance documentation at any time and without prior notice. Failure to provide requested documentation within 7 business days may result in temporary or permanent suspension from the platform.
6. Same-Day Preparation (California)
California MEHKO cooks acknowledge that all food must be prepared, cooked, and served or delivered on the same day of preparation. No food may be stored for future sale. Utah cooks may store and distribute food for up to 72 hours after preparation, provided strict temperature logs are maintained as required by the Utah Department of Health.
7. County Restrictions (California)
California cooks acknowledge that their MEHKO permit is only valid within the specific county that issued it. Cooks may not sell or deliver food to consumers in counties where they do not hold a valid permit. Operating outside the permitted county is a violation of California law and these Terms of Service.
8. Prohibited Items
Cooks agree not to sell any of the following through the Eat HomePlates platform: • Raw milk or raw milk products • Raw oysters or raw shellfish • Low-acid canned foods (which require a HACCP plan) • Any food requiring specialized processing • Food intended for shipment outside the state Listing prohibited items is grounds for immediate and permanent removal from the platform.
9. Platform Fees
Eat HomePlates charges a platform fee on all completed transactions. The fee rate is established at the time of the cook's enrollment and is subject to the terms of any promotional programs (such as the Founding Member 15% rate). Eat HomePlates reserves the right to modify fee structures for new enrollees with 30 days written notice.
10. Termination
Eat HomePlates may suspend or terminate a cook's account at any time for violation of these Terms of Service, applicable laws, or for any conduct that Eat HomePlates reasonably determines is harmful to the platform, its users, or the community. Cooks may terminate their participation at any time by contacting support.
These Terms of Service are a binding legal agreement. If you do not agree with any part of these Terms, do not create an account or list food on the Eat HomePlates platform. For questions, contact us at support@eathomeplates.com.