Environmental Health

Eating Fish and Crabs Caught in New Jersey Waters (Fish Smart, Eat Smart)
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and Department of Health (NJDOH) provide advice on consuming those species of fish in which high levels of chemical contaminants have been found. Since levels of contaminants may vary from one location to another and from one fish species to another, the advisories are also separated by site. So be sure to check which guidelines refer to your fishing location and the fish species you catch. View the PDF guidance from NJDEP.

Recalls.gov lists the most recent recalls issued by the six participating federal regulatory agencies. Each link opens a new window at the issuing agency's web site. Read more at Recalls.gov.

Consumer questions about food recalls may be directed to FDA's Food and Cosmetic Information Center. Read more at FDA FCIC.

New rules creating a cottage food operator (home baker) permit became effective as of October 4, 2021.

New Jersey historically prohibited the sale of home baked goods but has now joined other states in allowing cottage food operations.  The Department has been working on this issue for some time and carefully balanced allowing home bakers to operate small businesses while instituting appropriate safeguards.  While developing these new regulations, the Department received input from many stakeholders, including local health departments, home bakers, the retail food industry, and others. 

Beginning on November 4, 2021, food service businesses shall only provide a single-use plastic straw to a customer upon request by the customer. Food service businesses are required to keep an adequate supply of single-use plastic straws. Stores may continue to sell packages of single-use plastic straws and provide/sell a beverage pre-packaged by the manufacturer with a single-use plastic straw, i.e., juice boxes.