I found your site last night and read some of the forum postings. I was so upset by some of the postings. It got me wondering if I was doing something illegal. I cook for functions at my church. I will be cooking for a pastors lunchon, about 100 people. I am not a chief at this time but I plan to go back to school as soon as my kids are older. I do not charge for my work. I create sample menus based on the budget. The church pays for the food, and I prepare it. Is that illegal? I don't want to be doing something that can get me in trouble. Any answers would be helpful.
Thanks,
Cheriemarie

if it is for the church and you are not "selling" the food or your services then you are probably OK, is the kitchen at the Church Inspected & approved by the health dept...some jurisdictions require churchs to do this, while others don't,,,,but if you are volunteering at a private function, using their facility & their food, I don't think you have anything to worry about....sam sears, cec

Sam, thanks for relieving my mind, about what I am doing. I asked and the church has been inspected and approved by the health dept. They did it just to be on the safe side. It isn't required here. Thanks again. Maybe in a few years I will be able to be a real "legal" chef. I can't wait till that day comes.
Cherie