The Oswego County Health Department reminds residents to be aware of food they purchase online as there has been an increase of incidents involving people using social media to sell food prepared in their homes.

“We’ve recently seen more people using social media to sell food items they’ve made in their home kitchen without the required authorization,” said Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor. “This practice is illegal and poses a public health risk, as the kitchen is not inspected and the food is unregulated.

“The health department is unable to permit any type of food preparation or service out of private home kitchens due to New York State Sanitary Codes,” she added.  “However, some may qualify for a Home Processor Exemption through the Department of Agriculture and Markets, depending on the type of food they prepare.”

Those making certain baked goods, jellies or snack mixes that do not require refrigeration may qualify for a Home Processor Exemption. The exemption would allow them to prepare food in their home kitchen for wholesale or retail sale at agricultural venues including farms, farm stands, farmers’ markets, green markets, craft fairs and flea markets. For more information on the Home Processor Exemption, visit https://agriculture.ny.gov/food-safety/home-processing or contact the Department of Agriculture and Markets at 518-457-4492 or agr.sm.HPRegistrations@agriculture.ny.gov.

Residents that wish to prepare food that is not allowed under the Home Processor Exemption may have the option of using a separate kitchen in their home. A separate kitchen is one that is not used to prepare or serve food for family consumption. Those that plan on using a separate kitchen in their home should contact the Oswego County Health Department Environmental Division at 315-349-3557 to obtain a Food Service Establishment permit.

Anyone found selling food items in their home kitchens without the proper exemption or permit may be subject to fines.

For more information about food service safety and requirements, visit https://health.oswegocounty.com/programs/environmental1/foodservice_safety.php or call the Oswego County Health Department Environmental Division at 315-349-3557.