As a food artisan in British Columbia, I am deeply concerned about the proposed changes to the food guidelines of low risk foods. These changes could severely impact the entire community of home artisans who rely on local sales. This includes artisans who sell at places like craft markets, and individuals who donate to school fundraisers, and charity events.

The existing guidelines allow for safe, low-risk food production in home kitchens. According to the BC Centre for Disease Control, low-risk foods account for an extremely small percentage of food borne illness cases in the province. The new proposed regulations will require all low risk foods to be prepared in a licensed commercial kitchen.  These spaces are very limited and will not support this increase in vendor demand. This will also add extra cost to the production of artisan low risk goods, which will have to be passed onto the consumer, lowering the affordability for the average British Columbian.

The proposed legislation will not be enforced for any business selling at exclusively BCAFM (BC Association of Farmer Markets) events. By granting a specific exemption or streamlined process solely to vendors within the farmers market circuit, the policy effectively discriminates against community-minded “at home” artisans, creating a two tiered system, and eliminating creators who contribute just as much to the local economy. 

If these changes are implemented, many artisans will be forced out of business. This could mean fewer options for local consumers, less support to community events, and a loss of cultural and artisanal foods unique to British Columbia.  We urge the decision-makers to reconsider the proposed changes and engage in dialogue with the individuals affected. By signing this petition you can support the voices and economy of your community, local charities and growth of regional food artisans by pushing to keep the current evidence-based regulations.

Please sign this petition to show your support for maintaining the current BC food guidelines for low-risk foods. Let's help preserve the livelihoods of countless artisans who support vibrant local economies, communities and charities.