Just in case you're reading this because you hope to certify your own kitchen, I'd like to share some advice: Be really careful when you buy your legal-for-trade scale.
I bought a scale (online) that was too sensitive for my needs because I was overwhelmed by the options available. However, sensitive scales need to be recalibrated more frequently. Having a licensed scale repair shop recalibrate your scale costs money.
My scale inspector (if you certify your kitchen in Oregon, you too will have a scale inspector) came by in late October to test my scale. I had only used it a few times, but he found that it was weighing in error at 100th of an ounce so he couldn't pass me. Helpfully, he told me if my scale were less sensitive, he would have been able to pass me.
So I had to take the scale down to a very nice certified scale repair shop, and I only had a limited time to do this or else I would have to pay a fine to the Department of Agriculture. (In order to produce legal food, it must be weighed legally, too.)
The repair bill was almost half of what I paid for the scale. I thought about what might happen as I jostled it in and out of the car, and I just felt ill. I can't afford to pay $100 every time someone sneezes within 30 yards of the scale. So I asked the very nice scale people if they would accept my scale in trade for a less sensitive one.
They agreed. And they handled the paperwork with the Department of Agriculture.
If you ever need help choosing a scale, buying a scale or repairing a scale, visit A-1 Scale in NW Portland. Very nice people.
Recent Comments