Selling Homemade Food in California: A Guide for Home Cooks

Are you a passionate home cook looking to make a living from your culinary creations? With the right permit, you can sell your homemade food in farmers markets, festivals, from home, and other places in California. The California Home Food Act allows artisanal food producers to sell their products across the state's county borders. Here's what you need to know about selling homemade food in California and how to make the most of this exciting opportunity. If you're looking to sell homemade food in California, you must obtain a Class A permit from the county health department.

This permit requires self-certification, but no physical inspection of your kitchen will be performed. With this permit, you can sell your products at farmers markets and other markets and fairs, from your own home, at special events, and virtually anywhere in the state of California, as long as you or your employee sells the product directly to the consumer. If you're not a producer, agricultural producer or food supplier, you can still participate in the agricultural market by establishing a relationship with the California Farmers Market Association and offering a pleasant, responsible and professional work experience. This will increase your chances of being selected for a higher-demand market. The Class B permit allows sales to third parties in retail stores such as restaurants and grocery markets.

You can also use mail services for delivery as long as you have obtained a permit from your county health department. Selling homemade food in California is an exciting opportunity for passionate home cooks. With the right permit, self-certification, and a professional attitude, you can make a living doing what you love.

Tricia Sweetman
Tricia Sweetman

Total zombie guru. Passionate music maven. Hardcore pop culture evangelist. Avid food nerd. Passionate beer buff. Proud bacon evangelist.