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Minnesota Farmers' Market Association 

Testing Cottage Foods for pH


What is pH?

pH measures the amount of acidity or alkalinity in a food or solution using a numerical scale between 1 and 14. A pH value of 1 is most acidic, a pH value of 7 is neutral, and values above 7 are referred to as basic or alkaline. Acidic and acidified foods have a pH value less than or equal to 4.6. 

What is equilibrium pH?

Equilibrium pH is the pH of a food product after the added acid has reached throughout the food matrix; the pH of added acid and low-acid ingredients have equilibrated. To meet the legal requirements for cottage foods in MN, pH must be 4.6 or below.

Shopping for pH Meters

There are many reliable models in the $50 to $100 range. Recommended features:

  • The meter uses at least two buffer solution calibrations, 4.00 and 7.00.
    • Buffer solutions expire over time; check the expiration date before using and buy new solutions as needed.
  • An accuracy range to at least +/- 0.00 units.


Calibrating and Using a pH Meter

This pH Meter Calibration and User Guide explains the basic processes for most pH meters.


Coming Soon! 

MFMA provides services, programs, and leadership that support and promote farmers' markets across Minnesota and our Tribal Nations.

We envision a community of vibrant, profitable, and professionally managed Minnesota farmers’ markets that:

                    • Cultivates, nourishes, and inspires a vibrant local foods community;
                    • Provides accessibility to all to local farm fresh foods;
                    • Allows local food producers to thrive and grow;
                    • Ensures these opportunities are available to everyone regardless of ethnicity, age, gender identity, or economic standing.

Director of Government Affairs: Friendly Vang-Johnson /// friendly@mfma.org /// (206) 276-2284

Director of Engagement & Inclusion: Sina War /// sina@mfma.org /// 

Executive Director: Kathy Zeman /// kzeman@mfma.org /// (507) 664-9446 


Minnesota Farmers' Market Association | 9800 155th St E | Nerstrand MN 55053-2403


         

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