Published in Fall 2023
By: Kelly Streit, OSU Extension Service
Good news for small farmers and aspiring food entrepreneurs who want to produce and sell a low-risk farm direct, value-added product directly to consumers without having to obtain a processing license. Due to the efforts of Friends of Family Farmers, the Oregon State Extension Service, farmers market managers, small farmers, and food hub managers, SB507 was passed and signed into law earlier this year. Below is a list of the amendments that are included in the new law:
• Product list expanded to include BigLeaf and walnut syrup, processed fruit and vegetable juices, herbal blends (herbal tea or dried herbs)
• Food preservation methods expanded to include steam canning and freeze drying
• Sales/delivery channels expanded to include intrastate online sales and third party sales
• Gross sale limit increased to $50,000/year
ODA formed a Food Safety Advisory Committee in July to draft the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) for publishing by the Secretary of State in their bulletin. A public hearing must occur at least 14 days after the posting. We are currently awaiting an update from ODA as to their timeline. it is important that the public and the farm direct community understand that the farm direct laws and associated rules are currently unchanged and will not change until after the 91st day sine die (9/25) OSU will provide educational outreach to Oregon’s agricultural community once the new law takes effect. Stay tuned for future updates.