FSM 102: Donating to Food Banks – Keep Food Safety in Mind

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Episode Transcription

This is Susie Craig from Washington State University Extension.

Did you know the Washington State Department of Health has guidelines for donations to food banks? Organizations which serve or distribute food to others must comply with state food safety rules. Foods unsuitable for donation include “ home canned, vacuum-packed or pickled foods, foods in sharply dented or rusty cans, foods in opened or torn containers, unpasteurized milk, perishable foods past a use-by date, unless frozen, and foods prepared, cooked or reheated at home – except for baked goods.”

While Washington State Department of Health does allow donation of homemade baked goods not requiring refrigeration such as cookies, fruit pies, and breads, your local food bank may have restrictions. It’s always good to check their website or call to inquire.

For Food Safety in a Minute, this is Susie Craig.