Manchester aldermen meet to discuss possible changes to homestead law after pickle controversy
By Marissa Barrett
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MANCHESTER, N.H. (WMUR) — A Manchester aldermanic committee met Tuesday to discuss possible changes to the city’s homestead law.
The discussion stems from a controversy involving homemade pickles.
The Manchester Health Department sent a cease-and-desist letter to Daniel Mowery in August, telling him he needed a permit to continue canning and a commercial license for his kitchen.
Committee members reviewed the city’s current food safety regulations and how they might be updated.
“This particular item has been on the books for over six decades, and it’s a lot to deal with, and we’re doing the best we can with what we have now in front of us,” said Alderman Norm Vincent.
“I really believe we should be aligning with the state 100% and we shouldn’t as Manchester citizens be treated any different than our surrounding towns,” said Alderman Crissy Kantor.
News 9 Investigates found that the health department issued 33 cease-and-desist letters for homemade foods between 2019 and 2025.
The committee plans to consider potential exemptions for things like baked goods next month.
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