“We have two choices,” said Fairfield business owner Mary Small. “Follow the Cottage Law rules, or apply for a Temporary Food Establishment permit.”

A few weeks ago, the Chamber of Commerce arranged a meeting between a representative of the Texas Department of State Health Services and a couple of their downtown business owners.

Doug Hartfield, MPH, REHS sat down with the group to explain state laws concerning food preparation and handling.

In an effort to encourage local shopping, several businesses in downtown Fairfield, including Small’s gift shop, Accessories, Etc., have hosted special events by serving food and drink, such as cookies, sandwiches, hot soups and more.

These “shop local” events have been very successful, with several customers visiting these establishments for the first time.

However, the business owners were alerted in May, just days before another such an event, that they may not be following proper procedures.

Subsequently, plans to serve food were scrapped, until more information could be obtained about the required permits.

As explained by Hartfield, food permits protect not only consumers, but businesses as well.

“The permit tells your customers that the food was prepared properly, kept properly, protecting them and yourself,” said Mary Small.

The Temporary Food Establishment permit allows for serving a wide variety of foods, so long as they are provided from an approved source that utilizes a commercial kitchen.

This permit also requires proper food handling and hygiene practices. A 26-item check list is provided by the State Health Department to ensure compliance.

Cost for this permit is either $52 per event, or $200 for unlimited events during a two-year period.

Following the Cottage Food Laws, on the other hand, does not require a permit. However, foods are limited to baked goods, nuts, popcorn and such.

Cottage Food Laws allow for food preparation out of one’s home, but items must be wrapped and labeled, including ingredient information for common food allergies.

There is no cost associated with Cottage Food items.

According to Small, children’s lemonade stands are exempt from food permit requirements.

It is also important to note that food permits through the Texas Department of State Health Services do not address the serving of alcohol.

For more information about food permits, visit online dshs.texas.gov