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Rule Change Allows Food Producers to Process Low-Risk Foods in Home Kitchens
Post Date: October 22, 2009
On October 6, 2009 the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board approved a rule change that will allow certain products to be processed in home kitchens for sale at farmers’ markets, farm stands and other direct to the consumer venues. The rule change was proposed by the NM Farmers’ Marketing Association, the NM Food and Agriculture Policy Council and Farm to Table. These groups worked closely with the NM Environment Department to develop a rule that would protect public health while making it easier for small-scale food producers.
Home-based food processors will be required to obtain a permit from the Environment Department. To do so, they will need to attend a food safety training, develop an operational plan, have their kitchen inspected and pay a $100 annual fee. It will take several months for the Environment Department to get this program up and running, so stay tuned for updates and resources. For more information on the rule change, please contact Ilana Blankman of Farm to Table at 505-473-1004 x 12 or ilana.blankman@gmail.com.
Topics: Policy Updates |