MO HB2382

Repeals and replaces section 196.085 relating to poisonous or deleterious substances in food to include contamination from pallets used in food transportation and storage.

Prohibits sale, rental, or distribution of pallets containing formaldehyde or composite wood products with formaldehyde for handling food or food-grade goods in Missouri.

Requires pallets used for food transportation and storage to be treated to eliminate pathogens and tested for contaminants such as pesticides, preservatives, sealants, and paints.

Mandates that beginning January 1, 2011, food-grade pallets comply with Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Standards UL 2335 for fire safety and allows injunctions against pallet providers who fail to resolve contamination issues.

Requires the Department of Agriculture to report by January 1, 2011, on methods to prevent importation of invasive pests in wood pallets and establishes liability for entities knowingly providing contaminated pallets.