H.B. No. 2588 amends the Health and Safety Code to expand the definition and regulations surrounding cottage food production operations in Texas. The bill introduces the concept of a "cottage food vendor," which refers to individuals who sell food produced by cottage food operations directly to consumers. It also allows nonprofit organizations to operate as cottage food producers under specific conditions. The bill raises the annual gross income limit for cottage food production from $50,000 to $100,000, adjusted for inflation, and specifies that these operations can sell food directly to consumers or through cottage food vendors. Additionally, it exempts cottage food production operations from certain licensing requirements if they manufacture and distribute cottage food for resale.

The bill includes several important provisions regarding labeling and safety. Cottage food production operations must label their products with a disclosure stating that the food was produced in a private residence not subject to governmental licensing or inspection. Furthermore, those selling time and temperature control for safety food must register with the department and adhere to specific storage and labeling requirements. Local government authorities are prohibited from regulating cottage food production operations or requiring licenses for the sale of non-restricted foods. The bill also allows for the donation of certain foods and provides guidelines for sampling products at various locations. Overall, the legislation aims to support and regulate cottage food businesses while ensuring consumer safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 437.001, Health and Safety Code 437.0192, Health and Safety Code 437.0193, Health and Safety Code 437.0194, Health and Safety Code 437.0196 (Health and Safety Code 437)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 437.001, Health and Safety Code 437.0191, Health and Safety Code 437.0192, Health and Safety Code 437.0193, Health and Safety Code 437.0194 (Health and Safety Code 437)