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.
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..
Many states require that home businesses are registered at the state level before any sales are made.
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.
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.
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: