Assembly Bill 748 aims to amend current food licensing laws in Wisconsin by creating exemptions for the sale of certain home-prepared food products, specifically nonpotentially hazardous foods and canned pickled fruits and vegetables. The bill repeals specific subsections of the existing law and introduces new definitions and requirements. Notably, it establishes that home producers must register with the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and obtain a registration number. The bill also sets forth labeling requirements for food products, mandates liability insurance for home producers, and outlines different criteria based on annual gross sales, distinguishing between small producers and cottage food producers.

The bill revises the eligibility criteria for the existing canned pickled foods exemption to align it with the new exemption for nonpotentially hazardous foods. Under the new provisions, home producers can sell their products directly to consumers or at community events, provided they meet specific conditions, such as maintaining liability insurance and ensuring proper labeling. The DATCP is tasked with establishing a home inspection process for cottage food producers, ensuring compliance with safety standards. Overall, the bill seeks to facilitate the sale of homemade food products while ensuring consumer safety through registration and inspection requirements.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 97.29(2)(b)2.(intro.), 97.29