This bill mandates the licensing of homestead food operations that process and sell freeze-dried foods. Specifically, it amends RSA 143-A:12, IV to include provisions for licensing these operations when selling freeze-dried foods from their homestead residence, at their own farm stand, at farmers' markets, or at retail food stores. The bill defines freeze-dried foods to include fruits, vegetables, and commercially prepared dairy products. Additionally, it introduces a new section (V) that requires all homestead food products sold in packages to have specific labeling, including the name, address, and phone number of the operation, the product name, ingredients in descending order by weight, and allergy information.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that products made by exempt homestead food operations must be labeled with a statement indicating their exemption from New Hampshire licensing and inspection, while products from non-exempt operations must state that they are made in a licensed residential kitchen. The act is set to take effect 120 days after its passage. The fiscal impact of this legislation is estimated to be less than $10,000 for each fiscal year from 2025 to 2028, as determined by the Legislative Budget Assistant.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 143-A:12
As Amended by the House: 143-A:12