Local Foods, Local Jobs

Good News for Colorado Farmers Markets!!  Thank you Senator Schwartz and Representative Coram!

COLORADO COTTAGE FOODS ACT HEADING TO THE GOVERNOR'S DESK
DENVER—The House of Representatives passed the Colorado Cottage Foods Act today. The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Don Coram, has sweet-lovers around the state licking their lips. Senate Bill 48 will give cottage bakers and other home industry, non-hazardous food producers the freedom to sell their goods directly to consumers, which is currently prohibited under Colorado law. Non-hazardous foods are low in moisture and may be maintained at room temperature with minimal risk of spoiling, like refrigerated foods such as meat or cooked vegetables would. “This bill will prove a boon to our state’s cottage industry food producers,” said Coram, R-Montrose. “Under this bill, full-time moms, dads and others with a passion for cooking can share their creations and boost their household income. This is a good jobs bill.”  Under Coram’s measure, producers must be certified in safe food handling and sell their food directly to consumers, such as through a farmers’ market, a roadside stand or from home. The Colorado Cottage Foods Act would add Colorado to the list of 26 other states who allow home-based bakeries. Coram’s bill exempts small producers from commercial licensing requirements not only for baked goods, but also for items like teas, jellies and even certain egg producers who sell fewer than 250 dozens of eggs a month. Coram’s bill passed with bipartisan support and now awaits the governor’s signature.