Food safety workshop comes to Cook County for those new to food processing and value-added food production

Sarah Waddle, Cook County Extension Educator, 281-387-3015

Grand Marais, MN. (2/9/2024)—University of Minnesota Extension’s “Head to the Kitch­en” workshop is designed for entry-level food business participants such as small-scale farm­ers and growers, food producers and proces­sors, food entrepreneurs, and cottage food pro­ducers to gain critical food safety knowledge.

Attendees interested in expanding or starting a food business will learn food safety informa­tion that will help them confidently plan their business and interact with regulators. During the workshop, participants will learn about the different food business options and have the op­portunity to connect with Extension food safety educators and other food business owners. This workshop will include optional training in pH and Water Activity testing for individuals who may want to develop their own recipes to safely sell cottage foods.

The workshop will be held on March 22^nd from 1-4:30 pm at the Cook County Commu­nity Center in Grand Marais. There is no fee to attend, but registration is requested.

“During the panel discussion portion of the day, participants will be able to ask local reg­ulators specific questions about the licensing, inspecting, and operating of small-scale food businesses,” said Sarah Waddle, Cook County Extension Educator. “Participants will leave the workshop with new confidence and con­nections.”