Requires perishable and packaged food to be clearly marked with safety and quality dates.
Summary
Bill A04164 aims to amend the agriculture and markets law to require that all perishable and packaged foods sold at retail in New York State be clearly marked with safety and quality dates. The bill defines 'perishable food' and 'packaged food' and mandates that these products display a 'safety date' indicating the last day for safe consumption and a 'quality date' for recommended consumption. The bill empowers the commissioner of agriculture, in consultation with the commissioner of health, to establish rules and regulations regarding the labeling requirements.
Impact
If enacted, Bill A04164 would significantly impact food labeling practices in New York State, enhancing consumer safety by ensuring that perishable and packaged foods are marked with clear expiration dates. This change would necessitate adjustments in labeling processes for food manufacturers and retailers, and could potentially reduce food waste by encouraging consumers to consume products before their safety dates.
Sentiment
The sentiment around Bill A04164 appears to be supportive, as it aligns with public health interests and consumer safety. However, there may be concerns from food retailers and manufacturers regarding the implementation costs and logistics of changing labeling practices.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise from food industry stakeholders who could argue that the new labeling requirements may impose additional costs and operational challenges. There may also be discussions about the definitions of 'safety date' and 'quality date' and how they might affect consumer behavior and food waste.
Requires certain labeling to be used to indicate the safety dates and quality dates of food products; requires the department of agriculture and markets to educate consumers about such provisions.
Requires certain labeling to be used to indicate the safety dates and quality dates of food products; requires the department of agriculture and markets to educate consumers about such provisions.
Requires every food establishment to label all prepackaged food with a written notification on the package or on a label attached to the package identifying any ingredient with which a product is made that constitutes a major food allergen.
Permitting beekeepers who meet certain requirements to sell packaged honey and honeycombs without holding a food establishment or food processing plant license under the Kansas food, drug and cosmetic act.