Top 5 Mistakes When Starting a Cottage Food Business

If you have an idea for a food business, but aren’t sure whether the market is there to support your new venture, starting off in your kitchen may be a great place to begin. Using your home kitchen is a cost effective way to produce your product and gauge consumer response. 

However, you can’t just start making and selling food out of your kitchen. Most states have strict laws regarding home kitchens, which is why it’s important to know the rules before you begin cooking. So let’s talk about the mistakes you should avoid when launching a home-based food business.

1. Knowing the difference between FDA law and State & Local Law

If most circumstances if you are not selling your product across state lines, then you aren’t subject to FDA regulation. However, if you import food products, sell online or ship food out of state, then you must register as a food facility with the FDA. Even if you are exempt from FDA oversight, remember you will...

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