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New Farmer's Market Guidelines

Updated 4/21 by the CDFA: This guidance is based on what is currently known about the transmission and severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

As defined by the federal government, the food supply makes up critical infrastructure from farm to table and includes assets, systems, networks and functions that provide vital services to the nation. It is essential that federal government-defined critical infrastructure and supply chains are protected, and that all elements pertaining to the food supply remain operational, including a workforce that is vital to production of the food supply. More information is provided in the National Infrastructure Protection Plan to help further clarify these critical infrastructure systems.

Certified Farmers’ Markets are recognized as important sources of fresh food in many communities and CDFA is working to ensure communities can maintain access to healthy food during this COVID-19 pandemic. Local health officials are questioning the need for the “non-certified” section of the market to remain open. CDFA understands their concerns and is asking each market to first focus on the needs of producers and patrons during these times.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) will update this guidance as needed and as additional information becomes available. Local environmental health and public health agencies may have additional guidance and/or requirements regarding these operations in their jurisdiction. 

https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/coronavirus/pdfs/CertifiedFarmersMarkets-COVID-19-Guidance.pdf

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