The bill establishes regulations for the sale of homemade foods through a new classification known as "microenterprise home kitchen operation." This allows individuals to register with the Department of Agriculture to sell and deliver food produced in their homes, provided they adhere to specific guidelines. The legislation introduces a definition for "microenterprise home kitchen operation" and mandates labeling requirements for homemade food items, which must include the producer's name and address, product name, ingredients, net weight, and a statement indicating that the product is home-produced. It also clarifies that these food products are subject to food sampling to ensure they are not misbranded or adulterated, while exempting certain items, like fruit butter sold at festivals, from labeling requirements.

Additionally, the bill outlines a registration process overseen by the director of agriculture, which includes a $25 registration fee and annual inspections of the kitchens. It specifies the sale and delivery methods for homemade food items, differentiating between those containing dairy or meat and those that do not, and allows for both in-person and remote sales with restrictions on potentially hazardous foods. The bill also includes penalties for violations, such as fines and potential suspension or revocation of registration, while allowing local governments to enforce zoning laws. Furthermore, it streamlines the legal framework for food sales at farm markets and home kitchens by repealing conflicting sections of the Revised Code, ultimately promoting local food production and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3715.01, 3715.021, 3715.022, 3715.023, 3717.22