Rules and compliance
What VAT applies to takeaway food in the UK?
DineHarbor teamAsked Oct 20, 2026Solved
I am starting a takeaway. Do I charge VAT on hot food and cold food, and does delivery change it?
Answers
Accepted answer
In the UK, hot takeaway food is standard rated for VAT (20 percent at the time of writing), the same as eating in. Cold takeaway food is generally zero rated, and some items are treated differently, so the detail matters.
Delivery charges follow the VAT treatment of the food you deliver. Rates and rules change, so confirm with HMRC or an accountant for your own menu. Whatever you decide, set the tax on each item in DineHarbor so that receipts and reports match.
DineHarbor teamOct 20, 2026
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