Regulations Eased at Some Markets for Jams and Jellies Sold

The new Jams, Jellies and Honey law is officially in effect.  As of August 31, 2005 the State of Missouri has a new law that allows our county health departments to provide certain exemptions for farmers markets and non-profit fundraising ventures.  The result makes it easier in some areas for individuals to sell certain home-made goods at the markets without being inspected by the health department.

Someone interested in processing jam, jelly, honey, or other non-hazardous products (like cookies, cakes, and breads that do not need refrigeration) for sale, will not necessarily need to make them in a certified kitchen.  However, there are certain restrictions and guidelines that must be followed: 

• The individual must sell it themselves.

•  It can not be sold wholesale to a store. A sign and label must be clearly visible stating this product was made in an uncertified kitchen. 

These exemptions only apply to households making under $30,000/year on their product.  All sanitary regulations still apply; however the kitchen may not be required to be inspected.

Not all counties will take advantage of these exemptions. Therefore, those wishing to sell such products will need to contact their local Department of Health and Senior Services. 

County Heath Inspectors, who are found in the Environmental Health department, should be able to tell you which home prepared foods may be sold at farmer’s markets in your county.  If your county follows state guidelines, most likely individuals will be able to take advantage of these exemptions if they wish to sell.  If your county or city has their own guidelines, chances are pretty good that the exemptions will not apply.  But it can’t hurt to check.   Those who process in their home county, but sell in another, will need to also follow the rules of the county where they are selling.

At the Missouri Association for Environmental Health conference in the fall of 2005 there was a heated discussion on this new rule.  They were very concerned about the sanitation of private (home) kitchens.  So those  concerned about buying such products may wish to check on their county’s rules as well and heed the signs notifying them an item was made in an uncertified kitchen.

Other May 2006 Articles:
Dress Spring Salads with Vinegars Prepared at Home
Vinegars at a Glance
Go Native with Mulberries for Pies, wine and Jelly
Making Specialty Vinegar