Know the General Laws Around Selling Food
In the US, retailers who sell food from home are required to
adhere to Cottage Food Regulations. These laws apply to baked
goods, jams and jellies, dry mixes, popcorn, and nuts, and allow
you to sell at farmer’s markets and other local events alongside
your online operation.
- An annual kitchen inspection from the health department
- Zoning clearance and appropriate permits from local
government
- A state business license
- A pet-free kitchen environment
- Proper storage of cold and dry ingredients
Get the Right Certification and Permits
Once your workspace is law-compliant, you’ll want to make
sure you have the right certifications and permits to sell food
online. Again, requirements vary by state, and the online
marketplace is a bit of a gray area when it comes to this aspect of
your business. But to err on the side of safety, it’s a good idea
to at least get the following permits, training, and
certifications..
- Get your home business state-licensed.
Many states require that home businesses are registered at
the state level before any sales are made.
- Get a permit from your country
Check with local government departments to ensure that your
home kitchen meets zoning and food safety requirements. If your
home kitchen isn’t a viable option, you may need to consider
renting an external or commercial kitchen space.
- Become a certified food handler.
This certification includes training that can be done in
person or through online classes. During the course, you’ll learn
about food safety, the best practices for preparing and storing
food, cooking temperatures, handwashing, foodborne illness, and
much more.
Once your kitchen space is approved for business and you’ve
obtained the training you need, you can start cooking and packing up
those delicious products you’ll be selling online. Already running a
restaurant, cafe, or food truck? Then you might want to sell food
online by launching online ordering. In this case, you probably have
the necessary certifications and permits — but you still need to
complete the following steps.
Make Sure Labels Meet Requirements
When it comes time to package up your food products, you’ll
want to be sure to create detailed labels that let buyers know
exactly what ingredients are included. Share this information in
your online product descriptions, too. This makes it easier for
customers with dietary restrictions and reduces the risk of allergic
reactions.
When you sell food online, remember that specific allergens should be highlighted on your packaging.
The most common food allergens are:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts (cashew, for example)
- Fish and shellfish
- Soy
- Wheat.
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