PARSIPPANY — Legislation allowing home bakers to prepare cookies, cakes and pies for sale at fundraisers or for profit, sponsored by Assemblymen Anthony M. Bucco and John DiMaio, and Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce, was approved by the Assembly on December 19 by 76-0 vote.
The bill (A3618/1974/4351) permits the sale of home-baked goods as long as a visible placard informs consumers that the goods were prepared in a kitchen that is not regulated or inspected by the Department of Health, and the food has a label listing ingredients.
Anthony M. Bucco
“For decades, people have been buying grandma’s homemade chocolate chip cookies and blueberry pies at county fairs and roadside stands,” said Bucco (R—Morris). “We want to ensure this tradition continues.”
Under the bill, home-baked goods can be sold at the baker’s home, consumer’s home, farm market or stand, or a county, municipal or nonprofit fair, festival or event.
BettyLou DeCroce
“Talented bakers can begin a small business venture without the exorbitant costs associated with a commercial kitchen,” said DeCroce (R—Morris, Essex and Passaic). “Food allergies are a big concern for parents today, and our bill requires that each homemade item is sold with a label including the name and address of the baker, and a list of all the ingredients in the recipe to avoid allergies.”
John DiMaio
“Freshly baked pies and cookies for sale at roadside stands are part of the state’s heritage,” said DiMaio (R—Warren). “This solution makes it possible for bakers to earn some extra money selling homemade food without extra costs that could put them out of business.”
