Transcript

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I’m Susie Craig. Welcome to Food Safety in a Minute.

Did you know there was a bill passed in 1996 which protects Americans from liability when donating food? When food is donated in “good faith” and “meets safety standards”, the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act safeguards you from lawsuits.

Why is this protection important? It makes it easier for businesses, nonprofit organizations, and individuals to help others, addressing food insecurity while reducing food waste. For example, community gardens, restaurants, grocers, wholesalers, gleaners, food manufacturers, farmers, and even home gardeners are protected. All food donated must meet quality and labeling standards as required by Federal, state, and local laws.

Learn more about food donation, contact your local food bank.

This is Food Safety in a Minute from Washington State University Extension.

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Resources

United States Department of Agriculture. Frequently Asked Questions about the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act. https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/FAQs-GoodSamaritanAct.pdf. Assessed online 3/19/25.