Though the laws for home food business vary, depending upon the state you are running your business in and the kind of food you sell, there are still some basic regulations that are applicable to those who make food at home and sell it online or in other brick-and-mortar commercial avenues. However, it is important to note that these laws do not apply to catering. To ensure that your business fully complies with local and federal regulations, it is advised to consult an attorney.
The Production Area Must Be Separate
It is legally mandatory for you to keep the production area completely separated from the living area. If you are using your kitchen, there must be at least a door that blocks the kitchen from dining room and living room. In most cases, it is advisable to have a separate kitchen and tools for home food business; do not use the kitchen and tools that you use to cook food for your family.
Clearing Inspection
Before you start your business, you must first get the production area thoroughly inspected by an authorized food inspector. There should be no insect or rodent infestations in the area. The work surfaces, floors, and the tools and appliances must be well-maintained and thoroughly clean. The food inspector will issue a certificate once you pass the inspection. You must put this certificate at display in your production area.
Obtaining Resale License
If you are considering buying commercial cooking utensils and food and ingredients at wholesale price, you will first need to obtain a resale license for your home food business. If you do not have this license, you will have to purchase everything at full retail price. So, it is always worth obtaining one, as it will save you a lot of money.
Are you planning to sell liquor or alcoholic drinks as well? You will need to prepare your liquor licensing documents that are required by state and/or federal law.
Take a Food Handling Course
The laws in most states also require you to take at least one food-handling course, where you will get training on food packaging, food storage, and food transportations. You will also learn the proper way to clean work areas and cooking tools and utensils. These courses often last from just 2 to 8 hours.
Obtain Food-Handling Permit
You will also need to obtain a food-handling permit, especially if you are considering establishing wholesale accounts with other related businesses, such as bakeries and food stores. For this, you must first take a state-approved food handling course. After successful completion of this course and after paying a certain amount of fee, a permit will be issued to you. Make sure you carry this permit with you to avenues where you go to sell your food products commercially.
Overall, if you meet all these basic requirements, you do not have to worry about the legal aspects associated with your home food business.