The desire for locally produced and harvested goods has never been
greater. Farmers' market participation has grown tremendously in the past few
years, but the definition of "farmers' market" has evolved. Once
known for offering only freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, Hamilton
County Public Health (Ohio) stepped in to look at these previously unchecked
entities and found several challenges - vendors selling and preparing
potentially hazardous foods without licenses; foods were not properly labeled;
foods were not being refrigerated. Some farmers' market managers were unwilling
to cooperate with the local health department regarding vendors selling
unapproved products. Changing regulations and interpretations of existing laws
at the state level can add to confusion for vendors. Hamilton County Public Health is developing educational programs and materials aimed at the farmers' market segment. By developing educational materials and offering trainings, Hamilton County Public Health's mantra of "education over enforcement" is playing a key role in the relationship between enforcers and the participants and ensuring that all parties are properly licensed and providing customers with safe food.
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