The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) are beginning a rulemaking process to amend the Minnesota Food Code (Code) Minnesota Rules, Chapter 4626, revisor’s ID Number R-4601. We are considering rule amendments that will correct errors, omissions and unclear language in the current Code, bring the Code up to date and in substantial compliance with the 2017 United States Food and Drug Administration Code and time permitting, address other related items that may surface during the rulemaking process.
Your comments wanted
Licensed retail food establishment owners, operators and workers, certified food protection managers and trainers, local units of government delegated to administer the state food safety program, and food scientists may be affected by these amendments.
The departments have not yet drafted any proposed rule amendments. There will be several opportunities for public comment and input on this rule project. At this stage, we do not have a complete draft rule; we want your feedback to inform us about the ideas you have about the Code. If you have ideas or data related to this rulemaking that we need to consider, please submit them in writing. Submitting your ideas and information at this early stage in rulemaking allows us more time to address issues that may come up, and helps to ensure informed decision-making on our part.
How to comment
Anyone may submit comments or information on the current Code or possible rule amendments in writing or orally until further notice is published in the State Register that the departments intend to adopt or to withdraw the rules. The departments will not publish a notice of intent to adopt the rules until more than 60 days have elapsed from the date of this request for comments.
We plan to appoint an advisory committee to review and comment on the possible rules. If you are interested in serving on the committee or would like to suggest a possible member, please contact the department contact person listed below.
Written or oral comments, questions, requests to receive a draft of the rule amendments when it has been prepared, and requests for more information on these possible rule amendments should be directed to:
Linda D. Prail, FPLS Rulemaking Coordinator
Food, Pools, and Lodging Services Section
Environmental Health Division
P.O. 64975
St. Paul, MN 55164-0975
linda.prail@state.mn.us
Office: 651-201-5792
