Crosslake protests chili cook-off health rules

Crosslake citizens say unnecessary health regulations have hurt their annual chili cook-off, and a state lawmaker has the fix.

Rep. Joe Radinovich, a freshman Democrat from nearby Crosby, introduced a bill Monday that would ease state health regulations on soup and chili cook-offs. He calls it common-sense legislation, and says that Minnesotans know not to expect the same health standards at a community event as they would at a restaurant.

Crosslake citizen Bart Taylor says that the judges and visitors that come to town for the annual contest don't need to be protected from the state. After years of competing, he decided not to enter his chili last year.

Radinovich's bill is reminiscent of a push a decade ago that got regulators to ease off restrictions on potlucks.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.