Staple Foods Ordinance
Updates and Announcements
On December 7, 2018, the Minneapolis City Council voted unanimously to amend the staple foods ordinance. The changes, effective immediately, reduce the number of required food categories from ten to six, reduce the required quantities in certain categories, and expand acceptable varieties and package sizes in others. These changes will give stores owners greater flexibility in stocking a wide variety of healthy, culturally appropriate foods that meet their customers' needs. For a list of the required staple foods items, please see this handout.
In early 2019, stores will receive written communications about the requirements and resources available to help with compliance. The Health Department will offer education, training, and technical assistance opportunities to help store owners successfully comply. More information will be posted on this site in the coming weeks.
Project Description
Increasing healthy food options at licensed grocery stores
What is the Staple Foods Ordinance?
The staple foods ordinance refers to Title 10, Chapter 203 of the Minneapolis Code of Ordinances. It requires licensed grocery stores (including corner stores, gas stations, dollar stores, and pharmacies) to sell a certain amount of basic food items including fruits and vegetables, whole grains, eggs, and low-fat dairy. The staple foods ordinance was originally adopted in 2008, but was amended by the Minneapolis City Council in October 2014 to set more comprehensive and clear standards for food retailers and amended again in December 2018 to align the ordinance with cultural dietary preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (click here to view)
Ordinance Evaluation
University of Minnesota- School of Public Health: The Staple Food Ordinance Evaluation (STORE) Study.
The City of Minneapolis is partnering with the University of Minnesota-School of Public Health for a multi-year research study to evaluate the impact of the staple foods ordinance. The specific goals of the study are to assess changes in healthy food availability in stores before, during and after policy implementation and to assess changes in the nutritional quality of consumer purchases at stores. Results will be compared to a sample of grocery stores in St Paul, MN which does not have a staple foods ordinance in effect. For more information click here.
To view the University of Minnesota STORE Study please click here.
Progress & Accomplishments
As of 2016, 240 stores are required to stock staple foods. 63% of the 240 stores are in full compliance with ordinance. Food accessibility continues to increase as more stores become compliant.
Click on View photos to see before and after progress of Minneapolis stores.
Resources
For Store Owners
To view a power point presentation on required staple foods please click on Pictures of Staple Food Requirements and Quantities
For Consumers
View our Interactive GIS Map to find a location near you
Tips and Tricks about Shopping on a Budget
Get Involved
For Consumers
Shop for staple foods at your neighborhood grocery store
For Public Health Professional
Explore how healthy food retail will benefit your community. Please contact the Minneapolis Health Department at
For Storeowners
Do you need help complying with the staple food ordinance? Please contact the Minneapolis Health Department
For More Information:
Phone: 612-673-2301
Email: [email protected]
Accommodations
Should you require a reasonable accommodation in order to fully participate, or information in an alternative format, please contact 612-673-2301.
Para asistencia 612-673-2700 - Rau kev pab 612-673-2800 - Hadii aad Caawimaad u baahantahay 612-673-3500.
Last updated Dec 11, 2018
