# Health - General (GHG)

## Title 21. Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics

### Subtitle 2. Maryland Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act

#### Section 21-259.1

(a) A person may not open a sealed, closed, or fastened food container in a food store or supermarket if opening the package or container will leave the item in an unsalable condition, unless the person:

  (1) Intends to purchase the item; or

  (2) Has received from the proprietor authority to open the item.

(b) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $25.

(c) The penalty provisions of Subtitle 12 of this title do not apply to this section.

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Md. Code Ann., Health-Gen. (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)