Emerging Biz Video Newsletter 6 - Tips - Homemade food/'cottage laws'

Hello fellow entrepreneurs,

Happy Small Business week! Summer is getting close. I’m sharing some information for folks who are involved with making homemade food items & selling them in the community. This video newsletter also has Amber Summer w/ Leaders Looking Forward sharing her thoughts on growing her business. [ previously posted May 2024]

Play video Here

My Tips for today;

Many people participate in farmers markets, festivals, & vendor events. Each state may have similar laws for how folks can sell their products. For TN there is the TN Food Freedom Act. This is also called the ‘cottage laws’, which allow individuals with or with out a real business to sell homemade food/goods, as long as they follow certain guidelines. The link is here at TN.gov/agriculture.. (I think stated the incorrect URL in the video.)

If you sell items that don’t have to be refrigerated or kept warm, or don’t have any acidity levels then here are the basic you need to sell your homemade food items:

1- Have a sign or labels of ‘you/your biz name’

2- Your address and phone # (where food was made)

3- Common food name

4- Ingredients in descending order

5- Statement that your items are exempt from state inspection… (see website guidelines)

When you are out exploring your community remember to support these small farmers and craftspeople. Enjoy the summer and fresh made goods!

More tips & videos on a bi-weekly basis. I love to brainstorm and share ideas on how you can promote your business where you are!

Need help creating or designing a website or growing your business?

I offer free 30 min consult. Contact me! I love to collaborate and also connect you to resources.

Hey, if you know a small business in the area who would like to share what they have learned as a business owner, let me know. I love to interview them, or collaborate and connect you to resources.