Vegetables
Whole raw vegetables are farm-exempt produce; cut and prepared vegetables are TCS.
Farm ExemptRACWhole raw produce
$25kProduce Safety base
SealedScale for weight
TCSCut vegetables
What is covered and what needs a different path
What this guide covers
- Whole fresh vegetables at farm stands or markets
- Produce sold by weight on a sealed scale
- Produce from a farm under FSMA qualified exemption
- Vegetable seedlings (see Plants)
Needs a different path
- Cut, shredded or washed-ready vegetables
- Sprouts and microgreens in unrefrigerated trays
- Pickled vegetables (see Canned Goods)
- Value-added items without a kitchen license
Three compliance steps
A
Check farm size
FSMA Produce Safety applies by size.
B
Weigh correctly
Use a sealed scale.
C
Sell safely
Keep cold items cold; label packaged units.
Quick reference
| Item | Rule | Regulator |
|---|---|---|
| Whole produce | Farm stand and market sale | DPH / local board |
| Produce Safety Rule | Size-based; exemptions | FDA 21 CFR 112 |
| Scales | Annual sealing | MA Division of Standards |
| Cut produce | Retail food permit | Board of Health |
| Sales tax | Raw produce exempt | MA DOR |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license for tomatoes?Not for whole raw produce, but check local rules.
What about sprouts?They are high-risk and need a licensed facility.
What is the $25,000 line?The base for the very-small-farm exemption.
Printable checklist
- FSMA size checked
- Scale sealed
- Market permit
- Water testing
- Recall contact
- Labeling
- Tax exemption