New Rules for Local Farmers Markets

Tennessee will be enforcing new food safety rules at public farmers markets across the state. The change will require certain vendors to purchase a farmers market food unit permit if they intend to prepare and serve food onsite using improvised equipment for things like handwashing, food prep, drinking water, and waste disposal.

The new permit rules apply to any vendor that falls under Tennessee's definition of a "farmers market food unit." Vendors will be required to purchase a separate permit for each stall that falls under the new food safety guidelines.

The law specifically applies to on-site food prep. It does not affect vendors who want to offer samples, fresh produce, or food that was prepared off-site in a licensed and inspected kitchen off-site. Hot food prepared off-site will still need to follow these safety rules per the law:

"(1) Samples must be prepared on clean surfaces; (2) Food must be in good, sound condition, free from spoilage, filth, or other contamination; (3) Food must be honestly presented and safe for human consumption; (4) Cut produce should be discarded after two (2) hours; (5) Persons preparing or dispensing samples must wash their hands frequently or have and use disposable gloves; (6) A barrier must be maintained between hands and food, such as gloves, tongs, toothpicks, or napkins; and (7) Sneeze guards or plastic or glass coverings are required to protect open food products from contamination, such as insects, dirt, and customers."

Vendors preparing food on-site at farmers markets with improvised equipment will have to apply for a permit ahead of time. The permit fee is $300 and must be renewed before July 1 each year. Vendors applying next year before July 2024 will be able to pay a prorated $150 fee and the permit will expire on June 30.