SF490

The proposed legislative bill SF No 490 aims to allow small farm producers in Minnesota to sell fluid raw milk and raw milk products directly to consumers under specific conditions. Key points of the bill include:

1. Exemptions from Licensing: Small farmers who have less than 12 animal units (one mature cow, five goats, or five sheep equals one unit) would not need the usual licensing to sell raw milk products.

2. Labeling and Disclosure: Products must be clearly labeled with the producer's details, production date, and a warning that the items are not subject to state inspection. At the point of sale, a visible sign must also inform consumers of the lack of state inspection.

3. Sales Locations: Eligible producers can sell these products directly from their homes, at community events, or farmer's markets, as long as it complies with local laws.

4. Registration and Health Safety: Producers would need to register annually with the state without a fee for small-scale sales, and a modest fee for higher sales volumes. They must prove completion of a food safety course and health tests for their animals.

5. Pasteurization Requirement Exemption: Registered individuals would be exempt from state laws requiring pasteurization for their sold products.

This bill is designed to support small farmers by allowing them more direct ways to sell their raw milk products while informing consumers about the nature of these products.