Oklahoma Senate Bill SB833

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Homemade food; creating the Oklahoma Food Freedom Act; exempting certain food from state licensure. Emergency.

Impact

The enactment of SB833 represents a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for homemade food production in Oklahoma. Supporters argue that it encourages local business and empowers families and small producers to sell homemade goods directly. By reducing regulatory burdens, the bill aims to promote economic activity and community engagement in local food systems. However, it raises concerns about food safety, as exempting homemade food from inspections may lead to health risks if proper food handling practices are not adhered to by producers.

Summary

Senate Bill 833, known as the Oklahoma Food Freedom Act, establishes a framework that allows producers to sell homemade food directly to consumers without the need for state licensure, permitting, or inspection. This Act defines 'homemade' as food prepared in a private home kitchen, which will be exempt from various regulatory requirements if sold for home consumption. The bill emphasizes transactions between producers and informed end consumers within Oklahoma, ensuring that consumers are aware that these products have not been inspected.

Contention

Opponents of the Oklahoma Food Freedom Act express concerns that the removal of regulatory oversight could pose public health risks by allowing uninspected products to enter the market. The prohibition on selling certain meat products and regulations around the sale of poultry, rabbits, and fish are notable exceptions within the act, designed to address some safety concerns while still promoting local sales. The controversy surrounding this bill reflects the ongoing debate between consumer safety and the desire for less regulation in food markets.