How to Start Setting Up a Food Business
Do you love to cook? Are you known for your culinary abilities? Have you thought about turning your hobby into a paying gig? If you thoroughly enjoy working in the kitchen, and you don't mind a bit of paperwork, you may be on the path to becoming your own boss. The food business is a highly regulated one, so before you build your menu, familiarize yourself with your local regulations.
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Instructions
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Starting Your Food Business
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Identify your niche. You must be able to set yourself apart from others. If you specialize in cakes, for example, consider using all natural ingredients or unique designs and packaging. Browse the Internet to give you some ideas. Then test your creations on friends and family.
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Contact your health department about food regulations for your area. You will need to obtain a food handler's permit. In addition, consider registering your business. Your business name should be fun and catchy, yet representative of your food. Design an eye-catching logo.
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Obtain a licensed kitchen in which to conduct your cooking. While you may be able to get your own kitchen inspected and licensed, it may be easier to either rent a licensed kitchen or set up a fixed or mobile shop. Get your van or fixed location inspection ready. You may be required to have certain amenities and signage and put nutritional labels on your products. Your health department can get you up to speed. Ensure that your location is properly zoned for food.
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Create your unique menu. Keep in mind that you may be restricted as to what types of food you can sell, so be sure to ask your health department in advance. Take samples of your best work to craft fairs, flea markets, trade shows, parties, fundraisers and schools. If you don't intend to have a store, contact gourmet stores in your area about trying your food.
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Purchase your supplies. In addition to your ingredients, purchase creative packaging products that might help you stand out, such as 100 percent recycled materials. Be sure to include your business name and logo. In addition, you may need an oven, refrigeration, mixers, shelves, display cases and trays.
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Sell yourself. Advertise your business on MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, Google Maps, local directories and Craigslist. Start a free blog and put pictures of your best creations on your blog. Be sure to post frequently. Place business cards or fliers on bulletin boards around town, at your church, preschool and gym.
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Tips & Warnings
Set realistic prices that take into consideration all of the costs associated. Be sure to visit comparable restaurants or markets to find out how to price your goods. In addition, detail all of your startup and fixed costs in a spreadsheet. This will help you recognize when you can expect to make a profit. Keep track of all expenses and always look for ways to cut costs. Purchase liability insurance for your business.
