The world of online shopping has opened a new avenue for home bakers to create their petite businesses. A homemade pie or cookies that you used to gift only to friends can now become your revenue-generating enterprise. Welcome to the world of digital food entrepreneurship! The focus of this article will be to guide you through the completely legal way to sell home baked goods online.
If you have established a solid footing in the local market and are eager to extend your bakery venture online, there are a few things you need to consider to ensure compliance with legalities and safety regulations. Selling home-baked goods online isn’t restricted to just clicking pictures and listing the product; there are some essential steps to follow to make your business legal and successful.
One of the first steps to take is to operate under the Cottage Food Law. This law authorizes people to prepare certain foods in their domestic kitchens and offer them for public sale. However, the law differs from place to place and has specific requirements relating to the types of acceptable foods, the business location, and even the sum you’re allowed to earn annually. Always ensure you’re aware of the specific Cottage Food Law rules applicable in your area.
Next, you need to ensure you have the necessary permits and licenses. Getting a permit ensures that, as an online bakery, you follow health department guidelines, keep a sanitized kitchen, use well-stored ingredients, and prioritize your customers’ safety. Often, after the permit application, health department inspectors will visit your home kitchen to ensure it meets their criteria.
Legally, you cannot sell baked goods without the proper package labelling. A label should include your full name, your business’s name, your business address, and the complete list of ingredients in descending order of weight. Additionally, the label should also include potential allergens that your baked goods might contain to alert customers with allergies.
Moreover, it is fundamental to protect your business. All home bakers should consider purchasing business insurance to protect themselves from any potential legal action. While it may seem a surplus expense, especially for a small online enterprise, it is a crucial safety net that can make a tremendous difference if a customer files a complaint or sues.
Lastly, but most importantly, know your market and connect with your customers. Establish a substantial online presence through social media platforms and your own website. Listen to your customers’ feedback and consistently improve your products and services based on their reviews.
Turning your baking passion into a successful online venture can be gratifying. However, doing it legally ensures the sustenance of your business. It guarantees your customers’ safety while you legally make revenue from the comforts of your home.
If you are ready to take the plunge towards realizing your dream of selling home-baked goods online, we have got you covered. Setting your business up on the Airmart online selling platform is an effortless way of starting your adventure. This easy-to-use platform allows you to showcase your products to a broad customer base while simplifying the process of online sales. Get ready to take that upcoming leap and prosper as a digital food entrepreneur!