2019 Food Legislation – Should the Taco Become the State Food of Texas?

The 86th Texas Legislative Session is underway and there are several food-related bills that have the potential to dramatically alter the foodie landscape in the Lone Star State. The most important proposed food-related bills are as follows:

1. SB572 – Relating to foods produced by a cottage food production operation and a cottage food industry study.
   • In short, this bill would allow a cottage food producer (an individual who prepares food in a home kitchen without regulatory inspection) to prepare pickled vegetables, fermented products, and canned goods that are acidified or low acid.
2. SB425 – Relating to food allergen awareness in food service establishments.
   • A food allergen awareness poster must be displayed in a visible location to the employees of a food establishment.
3. SB476 – Relating to requirements for and municipal regulation of dogs in an outdoor dining area of a food service establishment.
   • A food establishment may allow dogs in an outdoor patio as long as the establishment meets certain health and safety guidelines. No Texas municipality may impose or enforce an ordinance more stringent than this.
4. HCR57 – Designating tacos as the official state food of Texas.
   • Is there bipartisan support for the taco?

Please share your thoughts with TexasPHS in the comments field below.