If you’re looking to start a small food business at home in the Palmetto State, here’s what you need to know about the regulations, licensing, and steps to get started.
1. Overview of South Carolina’s Cottage Food Laws
In South Carolina, the Cottage Food Law enables individuals to prepare and sell specific low-risk foods from their home kitchens without requiring a commercial kitchen or extensive licensing. The types of permissible foods include:
- Baked goods (such as cookies, cakes, and breads)
- Jams, jellies, and preserves
- Candies and confections
- Dried herbs and spices
- Fruit butters and popcorn
These foods are classified as non-potentially hazardous, meaning they do not require refrigeration and pose minimal health risks.
2. Licensing and Regulations
While South Carolina’s cottage food laws simplify the process of starting a food business, there are essential regulations to follow:
- No Food License Required: Cottage food producers do not need a formal food license, but they must operate in compliance with the state’s food safety regulations.
- Labeling Requirements: All products must have a label that includes:
- The name and address of the producer
- A complete list of ingredients
- A statement indicating the food was made in a home kitchen that is not subject to inspection
- Direct Sales Only: Cottage food products can only be sold directly to consumers. This includes sales at farmers markets, festivals, and from home. You cannot sell through third-party vendors, like retail stores or online platforms.
3. Food Safety and Best Practices
Although a food license is not required under the cottage food laws, it is crucial to maintain high food safety standards. Consider completing a food safety training course to familiarize yourself with safe food handling practices. This will help ensure the quality and safety of your products, ultimately building consumer trust.
4. Steps to Starting Your Cottage Food Business in South Carolina
To launch your cottage food business, follow these key steps:
- Identify Your Products: Decide which allowable foods you will produce. Be mindful of the restrictions regarding potentially hazardous items.
- Register Your Business: While a formal license isn’t needed, you may want to register your business name with your local county or city office to ensure compliance with local regulations.
- Prepare Your Kitchen: Ensure your home kitchen meets basic cleanliness and safety standards. While inspections are not mandatory for cottage food operations, maintaining a sanitary environment is essential.
- Label Your Products: Create labels that comply with state requirements, ensuring that all necessary information is included.
- Market Your Products: Start selling your goods at local farmers markets, craft fairs, and community events. This direct-to-consumer approach helps you build a local customer base.
5. Expanding Beyond Cottage Foods
If your business grows or you wish to expand your product range to include potentially hazardous foods (like dairy, meats, or items requiring refrigeration), you will need to transition to a licensed food business. This involves using a commercial kitchen and obtaining the necessary food permits from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
*Disclaimer: This article or any content hereof is not a substitute for professional legal advice, does not create an attorney-client relationship, nor is it a solicitation to offer legal advice.