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Food Approval

If I purchase an item classified as food but we use it for another purpose, is it taxable?

If you purchase an item normally classified as food but use it for another purpose, it is still treated as food and therefore, not taxable.

Example 1: A department purchases vinegar but uses it for cleaning. The vinegar is not taxable. 

Example 2: A department purchases pumpkins in fall and has students decorate them for display in the office. The pumpkins are still considered food and are not taxable.

What are examples of items which do not apply to this rule? Items sold for medical or hygiene purposes, alcohol, tobacco, candy, bottled water, soft drinks, and prepared foods. 

See: http://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=458-20-244, #2b.

 

What does "integral to the event" mean in regards to food approval?

Food or beverages integral to an event is meant to indicate the types of meetings where UW business is conducted, the location is away from the place where the employee normally performs his or her work, where food and refreshments are needed or wanted, and where obtaining meals or refreshments would be disruptive to event continuity. In these cases, a Food Approval form for meeting/trainings can be used.

Generally, the Food Approval form is not for regularly scheduled meetings, such as a department-wide monthly meeting. Refreshments served at these types of meetings would require a discretionary budget. 

Do I need a food approval form for food purchased for research?

No, food purchased for research does not require a food approval form.  Please refer to the Food Approval page for more information.  

Tax

If I purchase an item classified as food but we use it for another purpose, is it taxable?

If you purchase an item normally classified as food but use it for another purpose, it is still treated as food and therefore, not taxable.

Example 1: A department purchases vinegar but uses it for cleaning. The vinegar is not taxable. 

Example 2: A department purchases pumpkins in fall and has students decorate them for display in the office. The pumpkins are still considered food and are not taxable.

What are examples of items which do not apply to this rule? Items sold for medical or hygiene purposes, alcohol, tobacco, candy, bottled water, soft drinks, and prepared foods. 

See: http://app.leg.wa.gov/wac/default.aspx?cite=458-20-244, #2b.