Thomas Altman

Rules are often different for B&Bs. I’m not an expert on those laws, though I’ve heard that laws usually only allow B&Bs to offer food to customers on their premises. Some states don’t allow B&Bs to sell food to their own customers (even though they can serve the same food to them onsite).

Assuming that’s the case, then you probably need to…[Read more]

Maple syrup isn’t specifically mentioned in VA’s cottage food law, so I’m not sure if you’re exempt from inspection, though you may be. You can sell your maple syrup as a home food processing operation, but that requires an inspection. You should contact the ag dept about this.

Yes, if you’re using a licensed commercial kitchen and have the proper license from the ag dept, you can sell online. http://forrager.com/faq/#commercial

It depends on what state you live in, but in almost all states, cheese cannot be an ingredient in any cottage food item. Baking dried tomatoes into bread will probably be allowed. Jalapenos are less likely, but possible if they’re baked in the bread.

Most states do not allow hot sauces, but it depends on your state.

Although it may be common for New Yorkers to sell homemade food on Etsy, it is nevertheless illegal. Also, cordials wouldn’t be allowed under the cottage food law for in-person sales. You will need to use a commercial kitchen to produce the cordials. http://forrager.com/faq/#commercial

I don’t know the laws about making cologne, but I know that they would be separate from the cottage food law. I recommend you contact the health dept about this.

I don’t think you’ll find a resource specific to salsa, but generally, the requirements are going to be greater if you rent a kitchen. You should contact the ag dept for specific info about the business you want to start. I’d expect that you’ll have to take a course with a Better Process Control School.