Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Farmers Market topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Natick health staff review farmers market sampling rules as vendors expand offerings
Summary
At the May 11 Board of Health meeting, staff said the Farmers Market has expanded from only agricultural products to include baked and perishable foods; the Health Department is reviewing vendor sampling guidelines and State Sanitary Code limits, and flagged temperature control, hygiene, staffing and weather as operational challenges.
The Town of Natick Board of Health discussed farmers market policies and sampling procedures at its May 11 meeting as the market has broadened the types of products allowed.
Michael K. Boudreau, the town’s Director of Public Health, summarized the market’s evolution: "The Farmers Market initially allowed only agricultural products but expanded to include baked goods and perishable foods. The Natick Farmers Market operates yearround." Assistant Director Jessica Cliff told the board the Health Department is reviewing how other towns handle vendor sampling and is coordinating with Farmers Markets Manager Debra Sayre to determine what is allowable under the State Sanitary Code.
Staff identified several operational challenges: ensuring proper cold/hot holding temperatures, maintaining hygiene procedures, staffing inspections, whether to adopt a seasonal permit with a higher fee, and accounting for outside elements such as insects and rain.
The board and staff will continue to review peer practices and State Sanitary Code limits to develop guidance for vendors and market operations.
