More produce stands popping up

TERRE HAUTE, Ind (WTHI) - More produce stands seem to be popping up this year.

These stands are a way for people to make extra money on the side.

It is not illegal to sell produce on the side of the road but the Vigo County Health Department says the fruits or vegetables must be in their original state and not cut open or split apart. Food that has been cut open is more likely to grow bacteria.

Those setting up roadside stands in Terre Haute city limits must get a transient merchant license if they do not grow the food themselves.

"They are not regulated simply because there really is no hazard there. They are selling fresh fruits and vegetables. They are not cutting into them so there really is no chance that a hazard could occur like from the cutting process where bacteria could be introduced," Vigo County Health Department Educator Megan Bland said.

Farmers Market regulations

Transient Merchant regulations