What kind of food can I make at home and sell at a farmers
market?
Foods that do not have to be time or temperature controlled for safety
can be prepared in a kitchen in a private home for sale at state
sanctioned farmers markets. Examples include baked goods, jams, jellies,
and pickles.
What foods cannot be made in a home kitchen and sold at a
farmers market?
Low acid foods such as canned vegetables, slaws, stews, soups, sauces,
and any foods containing meat or other potentially hazardous ingredients
that would need to be refrigerated or otherwise be held under
temperature control cannot be offered for sale. Note: Montgomery and
Calhoun counties are exempted from this requirement by state statute.
Is there any type of labeling required for products made in a
home kitchen?
Yes, consumers purchasing those products must be informed by a clearly
visible label, tag, or placard that the food is prepared in kitchen that
is not inspected by a regulatory agency.
What about raw meats?
Only raw meats, including fish and seafood, that are processed,
packaged, and labeled at an inspected facility or are otherwise exempted
from inspection may be sold at a farmers market.
What about eggs, boiled peanuts, and honey?
All of these products are considered agricultural commodities and may be
sold at farmers markets.
Can I buy products at farmers markets for use in my restaurant?
Only whole fruits and vegetables may be purchased at a farmers market
for use in a permitted food service establishment. Processed foods made
in a home kitchen cannot be used in a commercial food service operation.
Can I sell goat cheese at a farmers market?
Dairy products, including goat cheese, must be processed, packaged, and
labeled at a facility permitted and inspected by the Alabama Department
of Public Health's Milk and Food Processing Branch.
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