Washington State provides a great environment for food owners through its cottage food laws, enabling individuals to produce and sell homemade foods with relative ease. If you’re looking to launch a small food business in Washington, here’s what you need to know about the relevant regulations, licensing, and essential steps to get started.
1. Overview of Washington’s Cottage Food Laws
Washington’s Cottage Food Law allows individuals to sell specific low-risk foods prepared in their home kitchens. This legislation supports local food entrepreneurs and promotes the growth of small food businesses. The types of foods you can sell include:
- Baked goods (like cookies, cakes, and breads)
- Jams, jellies, and preserves
- Dried fruits and vegetables
- Granola and snack mixes
- Honey and certain candies
These items are classified as non-potentially hazardous, meaning they do not require refrigeration for safety.
2. Licensing and Regulations
While Washington’s cottage food laws streamline the process for small producers, there are key regulations to be aware of:
- Cottage Food License: Producers must obtain a cottage food license from their local health department. This involves submitting an application and paying a fee.
- Labeling Requirements: All cottage food products must be properly labeled with:
- The producer’s name and address
- A list of ingredients
- Allergen information
- A statement indicating that the food was made in a home kitchen not subject to regular inspection
- Sales Cap: Cottage food producers are limited to selling no more than $25,000 in gross annual sales.
3. Food Safety and Best Practices
Adhering to food safety standards is critical. While a formal food handler’s permit is not required for cottage food operations, completing a food safety training course is highly recommended. This ensures that you are well-versed in safe food handling and preparation practices, which is essential for maintaining product quality and consumer trust.
4. Steps to Start Your Cottage Food Business in Washington
Here’s a concise roadmap to help you launch your cottage food business:
- Select Your Products: Determine which cottage foods you want to produce and ensure they comply with state regulations.
- Apply for a Cottage Food License: Contact your local health department to obtain the necessary licensing. This may involve an inspection of your kitchen to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
- Create Proper Labels: Design labels that meet Washington’s labeling requirements, ensuring clarity for consumers regarding ingredients and allergen information.
- Market Your Business: You can sell your products at farmers markets, local events, and directly from your home. Building a strong local presence will help your business grow.
5. Expanding Beyond Cottage Foods
If you wish to sell foods that are considered potentially hazardous (such as dairy, meat, or items that require refrigeration), you will need to operate from a licensed commercial kitchen and obtain the appropriate permits from the Washington State Department of Health.
*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.