Local Flavours, Familiar Faces!
BC Association of Farmers' Markets
Farmers' markets operate in every type of community across British Columbia from cities and suburbs to rural communities. Markets vary in size and sophistication, from large sheltered public markets to a few farmers with their trucks parked next to each other in a parking lot or farm field. Now that's fresh!
Managers' Corner / Vendors' Corner :: Health Regulations
Health Regulations
Also see Guideline for the Sale of Foods at Temporary Food Markets
By way of explanation:
The responsibility for the enforcement of legislation governing farmer's markets (the Food Premises Regulation) is vested with local health authorities. It is their responsibility to interpret and apply the provisions of the regulation to ensure the protection of the food supply. To assist them in doing so, in instances where there is a demonstrated need through provincial experience(s), the Ministry of Health Services in consultation with the health authorities, will develop guidelines for particular sectors or circumstances.
These guidelines are not binding, but rather provide the health authorities a framework from which they can assess their local circumstances. They have however proven to be an effective tool in enhancing consistency around the province. It must be stressed however the health authorities are responsible for evaluating local conditions/circumstances, and making decisions that ensure the protection of the safety of the food supply.
To that end, prospective farm marketers should be encouraged to contact their local Environmental Health Officer, who is best able to explain the requirements for their local jurisdiction. This is the best means of ensuring their application is processed as quickly as possible.
Larry Copeland, Manager
Food Protection Programs, Ministry of Health Services
