Public Health - Cottage Food Products - Nonpotentially Hazardous Foods and Refrigerated Baked Goods
If enacted, SB701 will enable more diverse food products to be classified as cottage foods, which can be sold directly to consumers or retailers. This expansion has the potential to boost small local businesses by allowing them to offer a greater variety of products without needing to meet the same stringent regulations as traditional food service operations. The bill also modifies existing frameworks governing food sales at farmer's markets, public events, and residential settings, which may encourage entrepreneurship in the community and promote local food systems.
Senate Bill 701 aims to amend the definition of 'cottage food products' under Maryland's public health laws. The legislation seeks to clarify that cottage food products need to be categorized as 'nonpotentially hazardous foods' instead of just 'nonhazardous foods'. This change is significant, as it allows for a broader range of food items to be sold under the cottage food regulations, thereby expanding the opportunities for local food producers and entrepreneurs. Additionally, the bill introduces guidelines for 'refrigerated baked goods', specifying what types of baked goods require refrigeration for safety, quality, and freshness, such as cheesecakes and custards.
One potential area of contention surrounding SB701 is the balancing act between supporting local food businesses and ensuring food safety. While many support the bill for its potential economic benefits, concerns may arise regarding the safety of nonpotentially hazardous foods and how adequately they can be regulated under the new definitions. There may also be discussions on how well the Maryland Department of Health can implement and monitor the expanded definitions to prevent any public health issues that could arise from incorrectly classified food products.