Selling homemade food has become an increasingly popular way to earn extra income or even start a full-time business. If you live in Riverside County, California, you may be wondering whether it’s legal to sell food from your home. The answer is yes, but there are specific regulations and requirements you must follow. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Understand the Cottage Food Law
In California, the Cottage Food Law allows individuals to prepare and sell low-risk foods from their home kitchens. This law is designed to promote small-scale business ventures while ensuring food safety for consumers. Riverside County follows this state law, so you must adhere to its guidelines to operate legally.
Types of Foods You Can Sell
Under the Cottage Food Law, you are restricted to selling “low-risk” foods. These are items that do not require refrigeration to keep them safe from spoilage. Acceptable cottage foods include:
– Baked goods like bread, cookies, and cakes
– Jams, jellies, and fruit preserves
– High-acid pickles and vinegars
– Candy and chocolates
– Dry goods like granola and trail mix
– Herbs and spices
– Coffee and tea blends
Foods that require refrigeration, such as meat products, dairy-based products, and cooked vegetables, are not allowed.
Types of Cottage Food Operations
There are two types of Cottage Food Operations (CFOs) in California:
Class A: This type allows you to sell directly to consumers. Examples include farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and direct deliveries.
Class B: This type allows you to sell both directly to consumers and indirectly through third-party retailers like restaurants and grocery stores. However, you must also comply with additional regulations and inspections.
Registration and Permit Requirements
Before you can start selling food from home, you must obtain the necessary permits and register your Cottage Food Operation with Riverside County. The steps generally include:
Complete a food processor training course: This course provides essential information on food safety practices.
Submit an application: You’ll need to fill out a detailed application outlining your business operations, including the types of foods you plan to sell.
Pass an inspection: If you are a Class B CFO, your home kitchen must pass an annual inspection by the county health department. Class A CFOs are not subject to initial inspections but may be inspected if a complaint is received.
Pay the required fees: Both Class A and Class B CFOs must pay associated registration fees.
Labeling Requirements
Proper labeling is crucial for cottage food products. Your labels must include:
The name and address of your CFO.
The common name of the product.
A complete list of ingredients, in descending order by weight.
Allergen information, if applicable.
A declaration that the food was made in a home kitchen.
The net quantity in standard measurements (e.g., ounces or grams).
Ensure your labeling complies with federal and state regulations to avoid any legal issues.
Sales Limits
California’s Cottage Food Law sets a limit on the amount of money you can earn from your cottage food business. As of now, the annual sales limit is $50,000. Keep accurate records of your sales to ensure you do not exceed this amount.
Tax Obligations
Even though you are operating a small, home-based business, you are still subject to tax obligations. Depending on your sales volume, you may need to collect and remit sales tax. Additionally, you’ll need to report your earnings on your state and federal income tax returns.
Marketing Your Business
Once all the legalities are in place, you can focus on marketing your home-based food business. Effective ways to market include:
Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are ideal for sharing photos and engaging with potential customers.
Farmers’ Markets: These local venues offer a great way to reach your community.
Word of Mouth: Encourage satisfied customers to spread the word.
Online Marketplaces: Websites like Etsy offer dedicated sections for food products.
Conclusion
Yes, you can sell food from home in Riverside County, but you must adhere to specific regulations and guidelines set by the California Cottage Food Law. Understanding these rules, obtaining the necessary permits, and maintaining high standards of food safety will help you run a successful and legal home-based food business. Enjoy the journey of bringing your culinary creations to a wider audience while earning an income from the comfort of your home.