Test PB Collection: FTE

by Kassim Al-Khatib Plant Sciences, University of CaliforniaDavis Although the intent in using herbicides is to kill unwanted plants in order to enable food crops or ornamentals to thrive, sometimes the use of herbicides has the unintended consequence, when applied inappropriately, of injuring nonta...

As a Cottage Food business owner, you face the typical business hazards, such as fire, theft, car accident or an employee injury (if you have one).

You should carefully consider how you structure your cottage foods business. Your primary options are: sole proprietor and limited liability company (LLC). If you do nothing, your business will be considered to be a sole proprietorship.

No food producer wants to think about being associated with a foodborne illness. Of course, your food safety and sanitation practices in your home kitchen are critical.

Cottage Food Operations annual gross revenues from cottage foods sales cannot exceed $45,000 in 2014, and $50,000 in 2015. Updated September 2021: Maximum gross annual sales amount cannot exceed $75,000 for a Class A cottage food operation and $150,000 for a Class B cottage food operation.

Cottage Food Operator Training (California Department of Public Health) Any person who prepares or packages cottage food must complete a food processor course within three months of becoming registered or permitted and every three years during operation.

All Cottage Food Operations must register with their Local Environmental Health Department (CDPH, PDF 308 KB) There are two classifications of CFOs: Class A: CFOs are only allowed to engage in direct sale of cottage food in any county within California.

CFOs are not allowed to manufacture potentially hazardous foods, acidified foods, or low acid canned food products that would support the growth of botulism if not properly prepared. CDPH will consider additions to the list four (4) times per calendar year (see form 8764 at bottom).

Cottage food products are required to be labeled in accordance with specific state and federal labeling regulations. The following requirements are intended to assist CFOs in complying with basic labeling laws and regulations.

(Material summarized from California Homemade Food Act, AB 1616) Cottage Food Operations may be subject to various local requirements. CFO operators need to consult their local planning department to learn requirements and permits required.