University researchers say growth of the hidden fast food industry may pose risks to public health
One in seven food businesses on major delivery platforms, including Deliveroo and Just Eat, is now a “dark kitchen”, a university study shows.
The findings, which shine a light on the scale of the hidden takeaway industry, found that 15% of all online food retailers in England were dark kitchens.
Also known as “cloud”, “ghost” or “virtual” kitchens, they are delivery-only with no customer-facing storefront.
Despite rapid growth, they have – until now – lacked a clear and consistent definition, creating challenges for regulators, local authorities, food safety officers, industry stakeholders and consumers.
