New Guidelines Could Change Sask Farmer's Markets

Saskatchewan farmer's markets try to bring you fresh, local food, but new guidelines could make it harder for them to do that.

The Ministry of Health thinks some foods sold at farmer's markets pose a health risk if made in a home kitchen. Along with regional health authorities, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Saskatchewan Farmer's Market Co-operative, they've drafted new public market guidelines that include a lot of proposed changes.

Regina Market Manager Ada Bennett is confused by the guidelines, saying the whole point of a farmer's market is to sell homemade food. "Everyone who attended a farmer's market knew that it likely came from a home kitchen, and they were fine with that. It was old-fashioned baking, yeah it's good, no preservatives, this is fine."

Health Minister Don McMorris says the ministry is only doing consultations because more and more products are being sold at markets. "We wanted to make sure that people's safety is paramount but as far as sweeping changes you know, we don't see the need for that."

McMorris adds it has been a while since the regulations for farmer's markets have been changed, but that doesn't mean all the proposed changes will end up taking place.

Some of the foods that could be axed include pumpkin pies, cured ham and bacon, as well as perogies and cabbage rolls. Bennett says if the issue is that these foods could spoil, there are ways they can deal with the concern like making sure they are refrigerated while on site.