SB 588
Relating to WV Food Freedom Act
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill, the West Virginia Food Freedom Act, aims to allow for the production and sale of homemade food items under specific conditions. It seeks to exempt these items from typical licensing, permitting, inspection, and labeling requirements, provided certain conditions are met. The bill establishes requirements for notices to consumers, outlines exemptions for specific products, and grants local health departments and the Department of Agriculture the authority to investigate and potentially halt the production or sale of food items linked to foodborne illnesses. It clarifies definitions related to food safety and production methods.
Key provisions
- Defines ‘homemade food item’ and excludes alcoholic beverages and drugs.
- Establishes conditions for exemption from licensing and inspection for nonpotentially hazardous foods.
- Requires producers to provide specific labeling information, including a disclaimer about potential cross-contact allergens.
- Allows for the sale of potentially hazardous homemade foods under specific conditions, including use of inspected products and temperature control during transport.
- Grants local health departments and the Department of Agriculture the power to investigate and cease production/sale of unsafe food items.
- Specifies requirements for notices to consumers regarding homemade food items.
- Exempts certain products from the scope of the provisions.
- Clarifies the roles and responsibilities of producers, sellers, and third-party vendors.
Who is affected
- Food producers
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