Conn. to enforce rules for local agriculture
Connecticut to step up enforcement of "Connecticut Grown" brand for locally grown food
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) -- Connecticut is stepping up inspection and enforcement of its "Connecticut Grown" program of locally grown food.
An announcement in the Department of Agriculture's weekly report on Wednesday says the agency will investigate complaints and make unannounced inspections of farmers' markets and other sites this summer.
Each product label violating the law is subject to a $25 fine.
Agriculture Commissioner Steven Reviczky said the agency is protecting Connecticut farmers and consumers. Buyers want locally grown food and he says they rely on correctly labeled products.
Reviczky says the deliberate misuse of the Connecticut Grown brand in labeling and advertising is not widespread.
State law requires growers who claim products are grown locally or in Connecticut to furnish written proof if requested by the agriculture commissioner.
